John O'Connor

Zookeeper

Giraffes, zebras, oryx, bongos.

42 Years

How did you become a zookeeper?
My father worked in Dublin Zoo for 44 years and I always wanted to follow in his footsteps.

What kind of animals do you take care of?
Giraffes, zebras, oryx, bongos.

Which are your favourite animals in the Zoo?
Giraffes.

Do you have any pets at home?
Yes, 2 dogs.

Can you tell us one of your most exciting/most memorable moments in the Zoo?
The birth of a giraffe.

What do you love most about your job?
That everyday is different, everyday has a new challenge. It never gets boring.

What’s the most difficult thing about your work?
The death of an animal.

When you’re not working in the zoo, what other hobbies or interests do you have?
Gardening.