On the 12th October 2018, I visited Chester Zoo with my class as part of our Management of Captive animals module.

The purpose of the trip was to gather research for part 1 of our practical assessments which will take place on 21st January 2019.  For the assignment we must set up an enclosure for two species. Choosing between birds, fish, mammals and reptiles. I chose to look at the Jaguar (Panthera Onca) and Sunda Gharial (Tomistoma Schlegelii) enclosures. During the time spent at each enclosure I made sure to note down all information required for the assignment such as; the temperature of the enclosure, what type of lighting was being used and what sort of substrate I could see. I also made sure to take photographs of all parts of both enclosures, including the public’s viewing point. Below are the images I captured of the enclosures (Plate 1, 2 and 3).

Plate 1. Image of the Sunda Gharial enclosure at Chester zoo (Authors own, 2019)

Plate 2. Under water view of the Sunda Gharial enclosure at Chester zoo (Authors own, 2019)

Plate 3. Image of the jaguar enclosure at Chester zoo (Authors own, 2019)

From induction week at Myerscough college until now; I’ve been looking into different work experience options for myself. When looking I asked; ‘what skills would I gain from this placement?’, ‘would I be able to travel to this location?’ and ‘would this placement help me progress towards the career in animal care that I desire?’.

My goal is to become an Aquarist. The first place of work I contacted was Martin Mere. From previous visits, I was aware they have an otter exhibit. This being the reason for my interest. I emailed and contacted them by phone. Unfortunately there were no current vacancies for work experience.

Next, I looked into local aquariums e.g. Blue Planet Aquarium.  Unfortunately they also had no vacancies. Due to the lack of opportunities close to home, I looked at an aquarium in Rhyl called ‘Seaquarium’. After I contacted Seaquarium by email, they informed me that they did have vacancies available to apply for. From there I registered onto their applications website and applied for the ‘Marine Mammal’ work experience. As stated on their website, this would be based in their seal section where they have Harbour Seals and South American Fur Seals.

I’m now awaiting an email to say whether or not my application has been successful!

Below is an image (Plate 1) which displays the email I typed and sent to Seaquarium Rhyl.

                                    Plate 1. Email sent to Seaquarium (Authors own, 2018)

Thanks for joining me!

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton