Wild Animal Trainer Colleges

Wild animal trainers teach and train exotic animals in numerous settings, including scientific venues, zoos, aquariums, animal parks and other facilities. Additionally, some trainers find work in the entertainment industry, training animals as performers for television and movies.

Like those who specialize in training domestic animals, wild animal trainers use positive reinforcement to reward animals for following instructions. They also take care of animals by supervising dietary habits, maintaining clean animal habitats, and engaging in environmental enrichment (play) with them.

Careers in Wild Animal Training

The motivations for a person pursuing wild animal training vary, but there are basic backgrounds and requirements that are suggested which would generally qualify as promoting soft skills for a wildlife trainer. An affinity for and genuine interest in exotic animals is one of these, as is a natural ability to establish rapport with animals in general. There are also varied paths to this sort of work: one includes a bachelor's degree (in biology, zoology, etc.) and previous experience, such as an internship. In general, for many of these positions, a high school diploma and on-the-job training or apprenticeship is all that is officially required, although some employers prefer to hire animal trainers with undergraduate degrees in biology, zoology or animal science, as well as experience working in direct contact with animals.^1,2

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for animal trainers was predicted to grow 13% from 2019-2029. In 2020, the BLS reported an annual median salary of $31,520 for animal trainers, with those working in the civic and social organizations earning the highest average salaries of $62,330.

During the same year, the industries that reported paying animal trainers the highest annual average salaries included:

• Civic and Social Organizations: $62,330
• Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals: $48,070
• Scientific Research and Development Services: $45,300
• Social Advocacy Organizations: $44,750
• Spectator Sports: $44,670

The BLS also reported that (for 2020) the highest average annual salaries for these professionals were in New York ($59,970), Kentucky ($51,930), California ($45,590), Washington ($43,790), and Maine ($41,290).

Requirements for Wild Animal Trainers

Since wild animal training covers a wide variety of careers, the education requirements vary, although basic requirements for most animal training careers include a high school diploma, while some animal training careers require a formal degree. Employers also emphasize background experience accumulated through personal experience, volunteer opportunities, employment in domestic animal management, college internships or work-study options. Often, zoos and aquariums establish volunteer and internship programs which can serve as an aid in this career track. Other opportunities to gain experience can be found at wildlife rescue organizations, ranches, equestrian centers or veterinary hospitals.¹

Depending on the position, wild animal trainers may be expected to have strong communication skills to speak in front of large audiences. Job candidates should be physically fit in order to lift large items and training equipment. Marine parks generally require trainers to pass demanding swim tests and be certified in scuba diving.¹

Education in Wild Animal Training

There are specific educational programs in exotic animal training available through colleges, vocational institutions, non-profit organizations, and other private academies. Most exotic animal training certification programs are designed to first determine whether students possess basic training soft skills. Many of these programs also impart knowledge in the areas of animal physiology, animal handling, laws regarding animal cruelty, physical and chemical immobilization, as well as others.² Animal-related organizations that offer these certification programs usually require applicants to pass written and practical tests in order to become credentialed.¹ Some organizations require trainers to complete continued education coursework periodically in order to renew certification.

While many colleges have excellent veterinary courses that familiarize students with these exotic animals, only a handful of schools provide on-site zoo animal experience to complement lectures and other laboratory-based instruction. Fortunately, there are a number of excellent teaching zoos and aquariums that give students hands-on experience with wild animals. Some educational programs partner with zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which is responsible for evaluating standards in zoos and aquariums, ensuring that these facilities are committed to providing the highest standards of human and animal management, welfare, safety, conservation, and education.²

Interested in learning more about safe capture? The San Diego Zoo now offers courses in safe capture techniques and best practices. Learn reliable, safe, and effective techniques for the species you work with and the scenarios you encounter!