A lorikeet perches on Rachel!

Today, we’re celebrating International Day of Women and Girls in Science by sharing the experiences and insights from some of the amazing women in science at our Zoo. Read on to learn more about how these women and girls are using their degrees to make a positive impact on the environment and animals around them. To read all of our features, visit this page.

Let’s meet Rachel Darling, a coordinator for conservation engagement in the conservation learning department.

What is your official title, and how long have you been at the Zoo?

I am a coordinator for conservation engagement! I joined Brevard Zoo in May 2022, so I’ve been with BZ for a little over two and a half years!

What’s your educational background?

I have my B.A. in Psychology – Animal Behavior and I just completed my Master of Science in Conservation Technology. Both degrees are from the Florida Institute of Technology.

Why did you pursue your field?

My education was animal and conservation focused, and that was initially the field I planned to pursue. I joined Brevard Zoo in 2022 as a summer camp staff, where I had the opportunity to explore the field of environmental education and conservation learning. Through our amazing learning department, I discovered my passion for facilitating learning in others! This all leads to the awareness, empowerment and action to protect local wildlife and ecosystems.

Rachel says she has fallen in love with educating the public through her job at the Zoo!

What are some challenges about your work?

Some of the usual challenges I face are just typical problems that can come from having outdoor programs in Florida. Outdoor programs can be at the mercy of Florida’s weather, which can unfortunately result in activities and experiences being limited. 

Who motivated you in pursuing your field?

I love animals and always knew I wanted to work with them. So, when I was younger, my grandparents would bring me to Brevard Zoo whenever I was down in Florida visiting them. They inspired me to join our Zoo!

What advice would you offer young girls pursuing a career in science?

I would recommend that they go after every opportunity and experience they can! I was extremely fortunate to have shadows, volunteer opportunities, internships and research experiences that all helped me decide what career field I wanted to pursue. Having those opportunities for career exploration also really helped with providing the necessary experiences for school and job applications.

What’s the most fulfilling part of your job?

The most fulfilling parts of my job are the moments when a participant has an experience that changes the way they feel about an animal, body of water, ecosystem, etc. With the Lagoon Quest program, we have students who have never been to the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) before or even to the beach. Being able to provide them with that opportunity and seeing the excitement they experience as they learn about the IRL and the animals that live there is so rewarding… especially when it leads to them feeling empowered and motivated to help protect those animals and their habitats!

Brevard Zoo is an independent, not-for-profit organization that receives no recurring government funding for our operating costs. Your generous support enables us to continue to serve our community and continue our vital animal wellness, education and conservation programs.