Welcome to my series of interviews with some wonderful people who work within the natural world, from zoo keepers, to museum curators and everything in between and those that are on the path to working in these positions too. Be inspired for a future where you can combine your love of nature with your day job. I hope you enjoy these interviews, that you can learn something from them and they can inspire you. Welcome to my series of interviews with some wonderful people who work within the natural world, from zoo keepers, to museum curators and everything in between and those that are on the path to working in these positions too. Be inspired for a future where you can combine your love of nature with your day job. I hope you enjoy these interviews, that you can learn something from them and they can inspire you.

Now let me introduce you to Maddie.....

Name

Maddie Humfryes

Age 

32

Location

Hertfordshire

What do you do (and where)?

Visitor Programmes Officer at Whipsnade Zoo

How did you get into it?

I studied for a degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare and took any and all work experience placements I could find. I travelled to Wales, Scotland, London and Dorset to name a few places to gain experience in zookeeping and presenting before securing my first paid job at Knowsley Safari Park and falling in love with zoo education and engagement. I went onto various roles at The Big Cat Sanctuary and Marwell, had a quick stopover into formal education in primary schools throughout Covid and I’ve now been at Whipsnade Zoo for over 2 years.

What made you want to do what you do?

A keen lifelong interest in animals and feeling a bit lost after my A-Levels led me to investigate my local agricultural college – The Berkshire College of Agriculture. They had the perfect course with lovely lecturers and facilities so I knew I had picked the right path. 

What does it involve?

My current role involves everything visitor facing: public talks, events, activities, graphics, zoo courses, tours, outreach in the community, school talks, story writing… you name it, our team does it! Everyday is different and our year revolves around term time and school holidays, our development work is done during school terms and then we deliver everything we have been working hard on during the school holidays.

Did you need any qualifications?

Not specifically for this role, it was desirable for me to have a performing arts or biological/scientific qualification. Other roles have required me to have achieved or be studying for a biological/scientific degree or similar course, it completely depends on the role and organisation. 

Any tips for a young person that wants to do what you do?

Don’t just tell people that you love animals, show them. Make yourself stand out by having practical experience alongside your studies as experience is just as, if not more important than a relevant educational course. It is also about who you know in this industry so talk to everyone! Every zookeeper that walks past, every volunteer – start up a conversation as you’ll never know what it could lead to. Make that scary phone call, send that email, go and volunteer at your local farm, zoo or animal rescue. Be proactive!

What is the best part of what you do?

The variety and creative freedom. ZSL is a wonderful conservation charity to work for that provides so many opportunities to learn and progress. Every day is different and I’m learning something new or developing a new skill set all the time. We can express what we are passionate about and support each other in developing the best resources and experiences for our zoo visitors that we can. The conversations that we have and the reactions and feedback that we receive, make it all worthwhile. 

What is the worst part of what you do?

Sometimes having a job that requires you to work outside a lot of the time can be tough in the British weather! You are out in the zoo come rain or come shine so a good set of thermals and a raincoat are a must! 

What is your favourite animal?

From working with big cats for almost four years, they do hold a special place in my heart! My favourite big cat is a Jaguar and my favourite small cat is a Pallas’s cat. Outside the cat family… binturongs, tapirs, maned wolves, bison, okapi and bears are just a few of my other favourites.   

What was the first animal that you fell in love with?

My first word was ‘cat’, so I think I was destined to be a cat person! I grew up with rescue cats and a house just doesn’t feel right without them.

What is your favourite place in nature?

Visiting Costa Rica was very special and living in the rainforest surrounded by water, trees and animals was an experience I will never forget. Closer to home, I love finding new nature spots in Kent and Norfolk and sometimes just sitting on a bench at the edge of Whipsnade Zoo overlooking the downs is all I need.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I am a keen photographer, so I try to get to other zoos to do some wildlife photography. I also love a museum, antique fair, theatre trip and a good brunch. 

If you were not doing what you do now what else would you love to do?

If I had the skill set, I would be in the west end performing every night!  I would also love to travel around looking for antiques and vintage items and sell them in my vintage/coffee/cat rescue shop!

Who inspires you?

When I was younger, I remember watching Steve Irwin and being totally hooked on his passion and knowledge. Now my inspiration comes from various people that I work with, have discovered through social media or met at conferences. They’ve inspired me to try new things, grab exciting opportunities and push myself to be the best that I can in a job that I love. 

What are your hopes for the future? 

I am not one that is motivated to climb the corporate ladder or earn as much money as possible, so job satisfaction and a good work/life balance are far more important to me. I hope to do more things that once scared me and to grab every opportunity that comes my way. I would like to travel and see more animals in the wild and meet interesting and lovely people along the way.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about?

I’d love to highlight the conservation charity that I have started volunteering for. I am an education advisor for Safina Lion Conservation Fund which was founded back in 2017 by fellow zookeeper and friend, James Welch. Since its set up, the charity has raised over £20, 000 for lion conservation focusing on strengthening bomas, providing salaries for Lion Guardians and sponsoring 4 GPS collars. 

Where can people find you? (Drop your social media handles and website Etc)

I am on Instagram @maddiehumfryes which is mainly animal photography!

You can find out more about Safina Lion Conservation Fund from their website: Safina Lion Conservation Fund or Facebook page: Safina Lion Conservation Fund | Facebook

 

If you work within a job connected to the natural world and would like to get involved with this blog series please pop me an email.