Mothering Wildlife
Telling the stories of moms who work in zoo, wildlife, vet, and conservation organizations. Working with wildlife brings a unique set of challenges for working mothers. Join me weekly as I interview moms working primarily in the zoo field as we discuss their journey as moms, navigating the mental, emotional, and often physical challenges that come with caring for wildlife and caring for kids.
Mothering Wildlife
How To Be A Herpetologist Hero and Raise Children with Amie Mercado from the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
My guest this week, Amie Mercado, is a Senior Herpetology Care Specialist at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.
She offers a new perspective on being a pregnant animal care specialist. What do zoo guests think when they see a pregnant person doing "dangerous" things? In Amie's case, working with venomous snakes or feeding alligators. In this world of social media, does doing these roles while pregnant open you up to criticism?
Amie helped to organize a conference for iguana specialists last year. As a working mom, she spent a lot of time in and out of work organizing all the details. We talk a bit about how to balance professional opportunities when your children need you. You don't have to justify your decision for how and at what level you are involved, either!
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