This topic requires zookeepers to demonstrate competence in keeping a range of records for species within their care to ensure that accurate and consistent data is entered on record keeping systems such as ZIMS. The range of records will include those relevant to husbandry and management across various life stages and could include personal, section and institutional recording systems. It is expected that records will be consistent with EAZA Best Practice Guidelines where they have been developed.
This unit relates to units 2.2 Animal Behaviour and 2.7 Animal Training.
- Recording Systems: zookeepers can demonstrate effective data and record collection in a required format and approved guidelines.
- Husbandry Records: zookeepers can gather and record husbandry, feeding and health records.
- Breeding & Behaviour: zookeepers can differentiate and record a normal range of breeding and non-breeding behaviours.
- Training Records: zookeepers can summarise and record developmental behaviours expected in a training routine.
| Zookeepers working at Competent level can: | Zookeepers working at Proficient level can: | Zookeepers working at Expert level can: | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.8.1 Recording Systems | Gather and record essential information in a basic format (e.g. diary, tick sheet & white boards) | Facilitate data collection and accurate recording through their own work and by supporting others | Coordinate team members in the practice of data collection Ensure compliance with legislation and validate for formal reporting (e.g. ZIMS & PMx) |
| 2.8.2 Husbandry Records | Gather and record consistently accurate data for feeding, cleaning and health for species in their care | Describe the records which need to be kept and collated for feeding, cleaning & health. Monitor section records of species in their care |
Review and modify husbandry record keeping practices to ensure relevance and suitability for purpose and provide guidance to other colleagues Supervise other team members’ record keeping |
| 2.8.3 Breeding & Behaviour Records | Gather and record data/information on routine and specific breeding behaviour e.g. courtship, mating, gestation, incubation and pre- and post-birth as applicable to species in their care | Describe the records which need to be kept and collated for routine and specific breeding behaviour. Monitor section records of species in their care |
Review and modify routine and specific breeding behaviour record keeping practices to ensure relevance and suitability for purpose Interpret records/observations and ensure appropriate action is taken Supervise other team members’ record keeping |
| 2.8.4 Training Records | Gather and record data on maintenance of a behavioural repertoire based on an existing training plan for species in their care | Gather and record data on developing new behaviour(s) ensuring consistency in recording progress for species in their care | Supervise data recorded and evaluate effectiveness and clarity of reports before and after review with team members |
Resources
- EU Zoos Directive Good Practices Document (chapter 2.6) – European Commission
- EAZA Standards for the Accommodation and Care of Animals in Zoos and Aquaria – EAZA
- EAZA Best Practice Guidelines – EAZA
- The International Air Transport Association’s Live Animals Regulations – IATA
- EAZA Guidelines for Creating and Sharing Animal and Collection Records – AZA
- UK Secretary of State’s standards of modern zoo practice – GOV.UK
- …
Paths to fulfilment
- ZIMS training documents, webinars and interactive help – Species360
- EAZA Academy Courses – EAZA
- DMZAA Unit 7: Animal Records & Transportation – Sparsholt College
- …
Last updated: 25/04/2018