Keeper for a Day - FAQ

The programme may be altered on any given day due to animal welfare or health issues, but ZSL will ensure that if this is the case then the activity will be replaced with another similar task.

Do I get to go in with the animals?

You will get to go in with some animals, where appropriate. You will still get a behind-the-scenes experience with the animals that you don’t get direct contact with.

What sort of activities will I be expected to do?

Activities vary from mucking out enclosures, to preparing food and devising enrichment activities, to feeding and meeting some of our animals.

Do I need to be strong to do the tasks?

Some of the work is quite physical, but anyone of reasonable fitness should be able to cope.

What if I don't want to do one of the specific tasks?

No-one will be forced to do anything they do not wish to, although most find that taking part in the full range of activities is the best way to get the most from the experience.

How long does the day last?

The full day session will last approximately 7 hours and An Introduction to Zoo Keeping will last approximately 4.5 hours depending on the day’s activities.

How many people will be taking part at the same time as me?

There will be a maximum of five people taking part in the experience, so there will be plenty of opportunities for all to get involved.

Will there be someone qualified with me?

Yes, a qualified Keeper will be with you at all times to explain and supervise the activities.

Is it dangerous?

Working with any animal always carries a degree of risk, but you will be fully briefed on what you should and should not do in any situation and you will be fully supervised at all times. ZSL will take all necessary precautions and as long as participants do as they are instructed by the qualified keeper, then there should not be any particular danger in the activities.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The weather should not affect the experience, although the itinerary may be changed if conditions are unsuitable for any aspect of the day. Besides, ZSL’s keepers work in all weather conditions.

What should I wear?

You should wear comfortable, hard wearing clothes suitable for wearing outdoors in sometimes mucky conditions. Sturdy shoes or boots should be worn that are suitable for wearing in mud. At ZSL Whipsnade Zoo it can be cooler than you might anticipate as it is up on the Downs, so ensure that you have warm layers.

Will I have a uniform?

All participants will be issued with special keeper overalls that they can wear over their clothes for the day. In addition, gloves will be given for the more mucky jobs.

Are refreshments included?

At both zoos, the full day includes complimentary lunch plus morning and afternoon refreshments. The Introduction to Zoo Keeping includes complementary lunch plus morning refreshments.

What's included in the price?

As well as complimentary lunch and refreshments, you will receive a goodie bag with some mementoes of your day. Entry to the zoo is also included so you are free to have a look around afterwards. Please note that this is not always possible, as the experience may finish after the zoo has closed.

By purchasing a Keeper for a Day experience, you will be helping us to protect endangered species, conserve natural habitats and bring learning to life for all ages.

Can I bring a guest?

Although spectators are not able to accompany you on the experience, there may be opportunities during the day for them to see you completing the tasks with the animals. The experience does not include admission to the zoo for spectators, although a discounted rate is available if booked online at least 24 hours in advance. Alternatively, tickets are available for purchase on the day in the normal way. Please note that the zoo does not open for guests until 10.00am. If you do not have Internet access please phone 020 7449 6274 for further instruction at least 7 days before your experience.

Will I be able to take photographs?

We recommend that you bring your camera to capture some memories of your day.

Can my child take part?

Unfortunately participants need to be 16 years or older to take part in a Keeper for a Day session.

How often will the sessions be running?

Sessions run all year round at ZSL London Zoo and from April to October 2009 at ZSL Whipsnade Zoo. Participants are advised to call and book their session as early as possible to ensure the widest possible choice of dates. The sessions always run on weekdays. Please see Detailed itinerary information for further detail.

How do I buy a place on a Keeper for a Day session?

To purchase a place visit the Keeper for a Day main page and simply select which experience you would prefer and at which location. All purchases need to be made online via the website. A gift voucher will then be sent to the specified delivery address with details of the experience and how to book the session.

How do I book my session?

Once you have received your voucher, you simply need to telephone 020 7449 6274 to arrange a date for your session. Bookings will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Current availability can be found under Detailed itinerary information

What should I expect to be sent in the post?

A voucher in a gift card will be sent to the delivery address specified during the shopping process within 21 days of the order being received by ZSL, though we will aim to send it to you within 14 days. These are not put in anyone’s name and can be personalised. Be careful not to put the recipient’s delivery details unless you want it to be sent to them directly.

Any other questions?

If you have a question which is not covered in this list, please email keeperforaday@zsl.org and we will respond as soon as we can. Please call 020 7449 6274 if you have any urgent queries about your purchased vouchers.