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Name:
Tammy Hammond |
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Title:
Senior Aviculturist
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Park:
SeaWorld, Orlando |
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Hometown:
Ocala, Florida |
Time with Busch Gardens
Five years |
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Background: As a kid I was around animals all the time. My dad always made sure I helped care for our animals, which included pigs, ducks, chickens, cows, a horse and even a pet turkey. Already having some experience and interest in working with animals, I decided to go into the zoological field. I earned an associate of science degree in zoo technology from Santa Fe Teaching Zoo in Gainesville, Florida. During my education I began to get really interested in birds.
Soon after I graduated I landed a position at SeaWorld Orlando’s education department. A few years later I transferred into the aviculture department, where I am today. |
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Highlights: I’ve had the opportunity to work with all kinds of birds. As part of my job I feed birds, assist with veterinary care, observe and document behavior and breeding, and even scuba dive with penguins. I also had an amazing opportunity to be part of Audubon Society’s “Project Puffin.” SeaWorld sent me to Maine for two weeks to help with census research of Atlantic puffins and terns. I have also accompanied penguins on trips outside the park, even flying first-class with a few of my feathered friends next to me.
Favorite part of the job: The breeding aspect of birds is fascinating. I help prepare nest sites, observe and document breeding behaviors, assist with egg incubation and hand-raise birds. I enjoy watching chicks grow into mature and beautiful adults. |
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