For many of us, trips to the zoo as a child were full of wonder. We were suddenly transported to an exciting new world, filled with sights and sounds that we’d never experienced before. The brilliant beasts that we saw came in every size, shape and hue, all from different parts of the world, with varying colourful enclosures and fascinating dietary and care needs.
Zoos and wildlife sanctuaries not only offer safety to exotic animals in need but are also a space for growth and learning. In a controlled environment, people are able to come and learn about these creatures, where they have come from and the reasons why they are cared for in captivity. As humans, we often forget that we share this world with thousands of animals who also call it home. Spending time in a zoo environment, whilst being educational and fascinating, can also lead us to think about the bigger picture and how we can help maintain our Earth to keep all its inhabitants safe and thriving.
Do you have a strong connection with animals? Deep care for their safety and wellbeing? A sense of wonder and curiosity about the creatures that share our world? Then the study of animals, specifically a Zoologist course, might be the perfect fit for you.
Our certificate in Zoology offers you a chance to learn about all aspects of this highly competitive industry, not just captive husbandry but also enclosure maintenance and design, equipping you with the vital knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the field. Our course is a great introduction if you are looking to pursue a career in zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, safari parks and aquariums.
Completing one of our Zoology courses online gives you the freedom to explore and learn from the comfort of your own home, allowing a more flexible approach to your studies that suits your schedule.
Not convinced yet? We will let the wildlife speak for itself as we take you through some of the best Zoology facts about our New Zealand animal pals – you never know, you might just be inspired to follow in the footsteps of Darwin!
- The eggs of Kiwi Birds can occupy 20% of their body
- The world’s heaviest insect is the Giant Weta, at times weighing more than a sparrow
- New Zealand’s only native land mammals are the short-tailed and long-tailed bat
- The world’s smallest dolphin is the Maui dolphin
- Kea Parrots have a penchant for pulling bits of your car apart – they have been known to target windscreen wipes and rubber seals
- The world’s rarest sea lion species is that of the New Zealand sea lion, also known as whakahao
- New Zealand doesn’t have any deadly animals
- Sadly now extinct, the call of a laughing owl was said to sound like manic laughter
- New Zealand doesn’t have any land snakes
- If you have ever dreamed of seeing a sperm whale, the only place in the world where you are likely to come across one is Kaikoura
- Female seals are called cows and male seals are called bulls
- New Zealand is home to around 26 million sheep
- Tuataras have a third eye on top of their head
This is but a small glimpse into the fantastically wild world of exotic animals – there are thousands of species to learn about and environments to explore. The New Zealand Department of Conservation website is a great place to start to whet the appetite for an interest in animal studies.
The Go Rentals website blog compiles a brilliant list of some of the 11 best zoos and wildlife parks in New Zealand – perhaps take a look and investigate whether any may make a particularly interesting work environment. It never hurts to get ahead of the game and start reaching for your goals.
Oxford Dictionary defines Zoology as ‘the scientific study of the behaviour, structure, physiology, classification, and distribution of animals’. Within this field comes an abundance of careers to choose from, whether you prefer to work up close and personal with animals or would rather take a more academic approach. Amongst endless possibilities, some careers include:
- ZoologistÂ
- Zookeeper
- Animal nutritionist
- Ecologist
- Marine Scientist
- Academic researcher
- Science Writer / Lecturer
- Environmental Consultant
- Nature Conservation Officer
- Environmental Education Officer
Doing some research into the areas of Zoology you are most passionate about and interested in is the perfect first step in reaching for a career you will love.Â
Exploring different sectors of the industry will broaden your horizons and ensure that you find the best job for you. Perhaps look to see if there are any courses in your local area in your chosen subject or, for ultimate flexibility in your learning, look into online Zoology courses in New Zealand for greater ease in making your dreams a reality. Take the lead from our animal friends and trust your instincts!
As well as our general Zoology course we also offer courses in Primate Zoology, Carnivore Zoology and Reptile Zoology, which focus on specific parts of the animal kingdom.
Have you checked out any of our other Animal and Wildlife courses? Overall we have 22 exciting courses – including our four Zoology courses – each focusing on different sectors of animal-based careers.Â
Do any catch your eye?
- Animal Studies
- Reptile Conservation
- Equine Studies
- Dog Grooming
- Beginners Dog Grooming
- Advanced Dog Grooming
- Bird Care
- Cat Care and Training
- Dog Care and Training
- Marine Studies
- Animal Welfare
- Equine Business
- Wildlife Veterinary Assistant
- Horse Breeding
- Equine Care
- Wildlife Conservation and Management
- Vet Assistant
- Animal Care
Each of our courses comes with a downloadable brochure that goes into greater detail about your studies and what you can expect from your online learning experience. Our website outlines all the basics you need to start with enrolment, including a course overview, module breakdowns, assessment information and how the course works in terms of accessing your online studies, as well as practicalities such as tuition payment plans.
You can also read some of our past students’ testimonials to get an idea of the course experience.Â
Enquire today about any of our Animal and Wildlife courses and get your career off to a roaring start!
