At Mill Mountain Zoo, some children are stepping into the boots of real animal caretakers during National Zookeeper Week.

Mill Mountain Zoo proudly shines a spotlight this week on the extraordinary individuals who care for its animals every single day — the dedicated and compassionate members of our animal care team.

The job of a zookeeper is physically demanding, emotionally taxing, and mentally intense — and yet they do it with unwavering dedication, grace, professionalism, skill, and a deep love for the animals and the mission —wildlife and conservation, and education. They’re always observing, anticipating, and problem-solving. No one cares more for these animals than our zookeepers.