OAKLAND ZOO KEEPER RECEIVES PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
3/31/2008
For Immediate Release, March 31, 2008 OAKLAND, CA. – Oakland Zoo Keeper Julie Hartell-DeNardo is awarded a seat on the national AAZK (American Association of Zoo Keepers) Enrichment Committee. This is a highly competitive position which Ms. Hartell-DeNardo spent much of her career preparing for. Enrichment is a term that describes a vast array of activities and choices provided for captive wildlife. These activities can stimulate natural behaviors, such as scent marking, social posturing, vocalizations, or investigative and play behavior. Enrichment increases natural behavior, activity levels, and improves quality of life for animals.
Julie Hartell-DeNardo received this honor after being selected from multiple candidates across the United States. “Utilizing enrichment to provide for the behavioral needs of animals is an important part of complete animal husbandry and has been a passion of mine from the beginning of my zookeeping career. I am honored to be selected by AAZK to help continue to promote, improve, and develop this specialized area of our profession,” says Hartell-DeNardo. Dedication to animal well-being, creativity, and determination, has helped her implement and assist with a number of new enrichment programs at the Oakland Zoo. “Now, Zoos across the United States will benefit from her expertise and enthusiasm,” says Colleen Kinzley, General Curator of the Oakland Zoo.
The award-winning Oakland Zoo is home to over 440 native and exotic animals. Nestled in the Oakland Hills, in 525 acre Knowland Park, the Zoo is located at 9777 Golf Links Road, off Highway 580.
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