We’re all about the animals, but we can’t do what we do without our keepers, who work tirelessly to ensure all of the living creatures in our care are thriving.

We’re commemorating National Zookeeper Week by again this year by taking a moment to celebrate the exceptional qualities of our animal staff. Read on to learn about Shelby!

Name: Shelby Orth

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Position: Animal Registrar/Quarantine Keeper

Been at the Zoo since: July 2022

About the keeper: I have a Zoology degree from Colorado State University and started out as an intern here at Brevard Zoo. Being a quarantine keeper means I get to work with a wide variety of animals; it’s always fun learning each animal’s personality and training new behaviors!

What makes you unique: I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, have an identical twin sister, and went around the world when I studied abroad with Semester at Sea!

What inspired you to work with animals: Learning about the unique adaptations across the animal kingdom and growing up with pets fostered a deep love and awe of animals so I knew I wanted to do something with animals when I grew up! I started on the track of potentially going to vet school but pivoted after learning about the registrar role and started looking for registrar internships that also included animal care.

What advice would you give someone who wants to work with animals: Getting into animal care can be hard and disheartening at times; take breaks, don’t stop trying, and you’ll get there! Start getting experience at shelters, animal daycares, etc. and look for internships. It’s also incredibly helpful to be open to moving, it will open up your opportunities immensely.

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Special thanks to Flammio Financial Group, Stifel-Garvin Wealth Management Group, Artemis IT, and Jim and Darleen Barfield. Their generosity makes our work possible! 

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.