Peter Phillips

Zookeeper

Indian Hornbills

22 Years

How did you become a zookeeper?
I always wanted to work with animals so I studied zoology in college and applied to Dublin Zoo upon graduating.

How long have you been working in Dublin Zoo?
22 years

What section of Dublin Zoo do you work in?
The bird section

What kind of animals do you look after?
Birds and small mammals

Which are your favourite animals in the Zoo?
Indian Hornbills

Do you have any pets at home?
Not at the moment.

Can you tell us one of your most exciting/most memorable moments in the Zoo?
Getting bitten by the hornbill and ending up in A & E.

What do you love most about your job?
The close contact with the animals

What’s the most difficult thing about your work?
Seeing animals passing away, it’s like losing one of your family

How did you become a zookeeper?
I studied for two years and had five years practical experience before I got a full time job as a zookeeper.

When you’re not working in the zoo, what other hobbies or interests do you have?
I enjoy nature so walking on the beach or in the countryside is nice. I am also involved in a local wildlife charity and enjoy birdwatching.