![]() We are the leading international network for connecting RHINO KEEPERS! This is invaluable for people that are looking for experience in all aspects of rhino management, but they can choose the zoo which most suits their particular needs like breeding, introductions or training. Our Keeper Development Program provides scholarships for keepers to go and get hands on experience for a 1-4 day period with rhinos at our participating zoos. ![]() We provide scholarships and opportunities to bring rhino keepers together with leading experts in the field of rhino husbandry, veterinary practices, animal training, nutrition and conservation. We do this on several levels for rhinos in captivity by allowing for professional growth and knowledge in our bi-annual Rhino Keeper Workshops. IRKA’s mission is to promote professional expertise to develop and share the best practices for managed rhino care and contribute to conservation. How does IRKA benefit rhinos in captivity? In the wild? I have seen the power of this experience numerous time when they have the ability to see the magic of a rhino. ![]() Our Guest encounter program allows people to meet our rhinos up close, and have that personal interaction. It also allows for an opening for further education and illumination on the uniqueness of the rhino. When a visitor can see a rhino keeper personally interacting with our rhinos, it totally changes any misperception they might have had about this animal. How does visiting rhinos at the zoo educate guests/raise awareness about rhino conservation? A rhino keeper knows they are in the presence of the extraordinary and appreciate the sheer luck we have of working with these animals on a daily basis. What makes a rhino keeper so special is the knowledge, understanding and appreciation of an animal that has walked this earth in many forms for over 60 million years. There are about 60 managed in North American Zoos. To me they are the ultimate perception of power and beauty in nature (especially those Black rhinos!!!) Black rhinos are a critically endangered species with only about 5,000 left throughout Africa. What drew me into rhinos were their eyes… They have a special wisdom and gentleness that you would not expect in an animal that has such an unfair misconception that has been broadcast to the public over many years. I was with him for all 21 years of his life, and he taught me things that changed me forever, and touched the core of my soul. One of the most profound relationships that I will ever have was with my beloved Black rhino Mshindi. They are such gentle giants, and each one has their own distinct personality. What’s the best part about working with rhinos? What makes them special? Through all of my 30 years, I can honestly say that my love for rhinos has kept me fighting to make a difference every day in their lives. I have always been drawn to animals, and wanted to have a job that truly made in a difference in the world. The most important message to take away is that people CARE!! Our network knows that there is true passion behind our event, so our event keeps growing every year because of their love and support! What message do you hope people will take away from these events? Dave and I have been a fundraising team for the last 16 years! The events are based around a silent auction, cocktails and appetizers, live auction and guest speaker- this year we raised over $29,000 in 4 hours. My most recent fundraising events have been centered on Katie’s Night which is for my fellow keeper Dave Johnson’s 5013C Katie Adamson Conservation Fund. Over the years you have organized many successful events to raise money for rhino conservation, tell us about your most recent event. ![]() Christine has been a keeper for almost 30 years at the Denver Zoo, is a founding Board member of IRKA, and in her free-time has helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for rhino conservation. To learn more, we recently spoke with Christine Bobko, IRKA’s tireless Vice President, about their upcoming workshop, collaborations with IRF, and the magic of rhinos. ![]() They serve to develop and share best practices that advance rhino care and conservation worldwide. Since its formal organization in 2006, IRKA has become the leading network of rhino keepers and managers around the globe. The International Rhino Keeper Association (IRKA) was created for just that intention. There are many tricks of the trade when it comes to zookeeping, but unlike many fields where this info might be heavily guarded secrets, Zookeepers WANT to share this information with each other – because it’s for the benefit of all animals. International Rhino Keeper Association, logo courtesy of Peppermint Narwhal ![]()
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