Small Mammals
What do you do? What are your main responsibilities?
I am the biologist for the Small Mammal Unit. I help ensure the health and well-being of the animals in the collection, make sure our exhibits look great, maintain records, serve as a liaison with the vets, support facilities, the nutritionist, and FONZ, work with students conducting research, help arrange animal shipments, and fill in for keepers.
How long have you worked with animals?
I've always had pets (dogs, cats, anoles, turtles), and some summers I cared for sheep and goats.
How did you get started?
I received my bachelor's degree from Sarah Lawrence College, where I studied biology and animal behavior. I attended graduate school at the University of Maryland and did my research at the National Zoo.
How long have you worked at the National Zoo?
I came to the Zoo as a researcher in 1975 and have been employed here since 1977.
What do you like most about your job?
Being with the animals. They never cease to fascinate.
What do you like least?
Meetings! They never cease to bore.
What is a typical day like for you?
I get to the Zoo at 6:30 a.m. Before I even take my coat off and get to my office, I walk through the Small Mammal House to make sure all of the animals and exhibits are OK. Then I go over the keeper reports from the day before and then lead a morning meeting with the keepers and curator. I take care of the mara exhibit, write master reports, work on inventory, food, supply, and work orders, answer the phone, run around, and try never to do less than two things at once! No day is ever typical.
What's the most interesting thing about the animals you work with?
Small mammals are charismatic mini-vertebrates. They are diverse and always intriguing. I am fascinated by their many adaptations to their environments.
What's your favorite animal in the world?
Whatever I happen to be working with at the time.
