Day in the Life of the Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center Animal Caretaker

Photo: Sarah Gullo - Motorcycle (Diamondback terrapin)

At the Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center, the assigned animal caretaker starts their day by saying good morning to the little animal ambassadors. Being an animal caretaker at the Center is a rewarding and fast paced job that blends science and education.

Mornings are always the busiest times with the animals. After saying our initial hellos, we start with morning check-ins on all of our animals. These include reptiles, seahorses, stick bugs, and an interactive touch tank full of local marine creatures! Caretakers are responsible for conducting health checks, cleaning enclosures, and providing food for our picky eaters.

Yes, our animals are picky! Olaf, our Eastern box turtle, specifically enjoys blueberries, but they can't be too squishy or too sour. Dozer, our ornate box turtle, will eat just about anything with absolutely no complaints to the chef. The seahorses enjoy slurping up Mysis shrimp 3 times a day! While our stick bugs are more laid back and enjoy munching on romaine lettuce left in the enclosure.

Afternoons include enrichment activities. Here we may present animals during educational programs for schools or the public. These moments allow the caretaker to share facts about who the animals are, where they come from, and the importance of conservation in hopes to inspire our visitors to care more about the natural world around them. During this time is when our touch tank may be open for guests to explore. We have so many interesting and friendly creatures you must come meet. Check out our online calendar to find the next available time!