Al Ain Zoo in Ail Ain, UAE, is hosting two UK trainers from Durrell Conservation Academy in Jersey, UK, to oversee a joint development and training programme for all of the zoo’s senior keepers.

The training scheme will teach the keepers to better understand the basic principles of taxonomy, animal husbandry requirements and healthcare for all of the zoo’s reptiles, amphibians, birds and mammals.

They will also learn more on animal hygiene, sanitation, good enclosure design, biosecurity, sensible work practices and correct food preparation and handling, in order to minimize infectious diseases while also learning how to identify health issues early on through regular monitoring of health and body conditions of the animals.

“Al Ain Zoo has a strong partnership with Durrell Conservation Academy to assist us in the training of our staff in animal management best practice, wildlife conservation and sustainability, which is invaluable to the success of wildlife conservation at a global level,” said Al Ain Zoo director general Ghanim Mubarak Al Hajeri.

“The Durrell Conservation Academy is recognised as a world leader in this specialised field of training and we are delighted to welcome the trainers for the commencement of the second module. ”