Richard Dunn, Bird Keeper

When did your career with animals begin?
I officially began working with animals when I was 18-years-old. I began volunteering at my local zoo working with birds, reptiles, and amphibians. I also volunteered with animal rehabilitators while going to college.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
I get to work with some the coolest birds on the planet! I also enjoy that I spend much of my time outdoors working inside the animal exhibits.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
The Fort Worth Zoo has a very successful history breeding various species of birds. So, it's always a challenge to make conditions in the animals' exhibits just right so that the birds will breed successfully.

What's the most interesting thing about the animals you work with at the Fort Worth Zoo?
Every species, and often each individual bird, has a different temperament. So, my actions must be tailored to each species of bird I work with.

What advice would you give to students who may pursue a job like yours?
Volunteer! Volunteer! Volunteer! The more experience you get while going to school, the easier your job hunt will be when you graduate. Many animal institutions value keepers with a variety of experience.

What is the most fascinating animal in your care?
The Great Argus pheasant. The male courtship display is spectacular!

What is your favorite amazing fact about birds?
I know lots of little facts about birds, but this one is pretty neat. The story of how the Great Argus pheasant got its name is based upon Greek mythology. The creature called Argus had one hundred eyes. When he was killed, he was given a new body in the form of a pheasant. On the male pheasant's wings, there are numerous spherical shapes that resemble eyes, hence the name of Argus.

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