Meet Karina Altman, a Zoo Animal Programs Manager

This week, we have something extra special for you! We had a chance to talk with Karina Altman, the zoo animal programs manager at the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum. Keep reading to learn about what Karina does and how she got started working with animals!

What do you do as the zoo animal programs manager?

I am in charge of animal programs at the Ararat Ridge Zoo at the Ark Encounter. I also assist with running programs at the Eden Zoo at the Creation Museum. I manage all animal shows, behind-the-scenes experiences, social media, and anything else having to do with animal encounters. I am also a speaker, author, and editor for Answers in Genesis.

How did you get interested in working with animals?

I was obsessed with animals from the time I was little.

If you ask my parents, they’ll tell you I was obsessed with animals from the time I was little. I even used to sleep with animal encyclopedias in my bed! I always knew I wanted to have a hands-on animal job, so I did everything I could to be around animals. When I was a kid, I was breeding my dog, pet-sitting, and riding and working with horses at a nearby stable. I also had a lot of pets while growing up—and still do! I currently have a pet dog, ball python, and axolotl. I began volunteering at the local zoo when I was 15, and my zoo career was launched!

Of the animals you’ve worked with, which one is your favorite?

That is a tough question, because I have worked with nearly 100 species! Currently, my favorite animals at the Ararat Ridge Zoo are Luna the Eurasian eagle owl, CJ the dromedary camel, and our many snakes.

What is your favorite part of your job?

My favorite part of my job is the personal, trusting relationships I get to form with the animals. It is so fun getting to know each of their unique behaviors and personalities. Each day is different when you work with animals, and I learn from them and make new memories with them every day!

What is the most difficult part of your job?

After Adam and Eve disobeyed God, sin and death entered the world. Now, animals sometimes get sick and die. The hardest part of my job is when the animals pass away. It never gets easier because I have formed relationships with each of them.

What have you learned about God through your work?

Working with animals has taught me a lot about God’s design, creativity, artistry, and care for his creation.

Working with animals has taught me a lot about God’s design, creativity, artistry, and care for his creation. Every day that I learn something new about my animals, I’m also learning something about the God who created them. I am always in awe of the creatures he crafted.

For kids that might be interested in a job like yours when they grow up, how would you encourage them to get started?

Start working with animals as soon as you can! You’ll want to get lots of experience. You can volunteer at animal shelters, clinics, zoos, aquariums, or stables in your area. You can also work as a pet sitter or dog walker for your neighbors and friends. Plan on taking lots of science classes. Most zoo jobs require a four-year biology-related degree.

Thanks, Karina, for answering our questions!

Do you want to learn more about what a particular type of scientist does? Do you have a question about God’s Word or his world that you want us to answer? Is there a topic you want to learn more about? Ask your parents to help you submit your question today. We’d love to hear from you!