How do I become a marine animal trainer?

How do I become a marine animal trainer?

Animal trainers usually need a high school diploma or equivalent, although some positions may require a bachelor’s degree. For example, marine mammal trainers usually need a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, animal science, biology, or a related field.

What is it called when you train marine animals?

Marine mammal training is the training and caring for marine life such as, dolphins, killer whales, sea lions, walruses, and other marine mammals.

How much do marine animal trainers make?

Salary Ranges for Marine Mammal Trainers The salaries of Marine Mammal Trainers in the US range from $18,160 to $57,170 , with a median salary of $30,328 . The middle 60% of Marine Mammal Trainers makes between $30,334 and $38,743, with the top 80% making $57,170.

What degree do you need to train marine animals?

A bachelor’s degree is usually required of marine mammal trainers, but there are no bachelor’s degree programs in marine mammal training specifically. Most zoos and aquariums prefer their trainers to have a degree in a life science or a subject related to animals.

How many years does it take to become a marine mammal trainer?

Moorpark College in California focuses on exotic animal training in a two-year program. The school is extremely hands-on, and graduates have a great success rate of employment. Please bear in mind, however, that some marine mammal facilities require a four-year degree for employment.

What does a marine trainer do?

Marine mammal trainers are responsible for feedings, pool maintenance, medical tests/animal health, recordkeeping, as well as ensuring that their animals have daily physical activity, mental enrichment, and social opportunities.

How many years of college do you need to be a marine mammal trainer?

Can zookeepers have tattoos?

My tattoos are hidden just in case but so far a good majority of zoos are fairly lenient towards visible tattoos as long as like Amber said they can’t be offensive or vulgar. Cameron park zoo, dallas, Dwa…they allow tattoos and gauges. Toronto Zoo ‘allows’ both tattoos and piercings.

Is being a marine mammal trainer worth it?

Job Satisfaction Is High Working as a marine animal trainer provides a high level of job satisfaction, according to the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums. Trainers also may provide children with physical disabilities and health concerns an opportunity to interact with animals.

What is marine mammal training?

Marine mammal training is a conditioning process through which animals receive mental stimulation, physical exercise and husbandry care. Animal trainers are responsible for the total mental and physical health of the animals in their care.

Most marine animal trainers gain experience by working at aquariums or marinas. Some trainers have a degree in marine biology or animal science. If you decide to go to school for a related degree it’s important to find a school with up-to-date research facilities and relevant internship opportunities.

Can animals be trained to be trained?

In the marine world, animal training has primarily been limited to marine mammals, though scientists have attempted to train other marine animals with limited success. including dolphins, seals, sea lions, walruses, and sea otters. Marine mammal trainers use positive reinforcement (e.g. operant conditioning) to train animals in their care.

How can I get involved in the marine animal community?

Fortunately, there are a number of ways to become involved in the marine animal community. It is important to visit facilities and learn their operations, resources and procedures. This may give you a better idea of the organizations you would like to work with.