THOMAS ANSELL
Burbage,Leicestershire
Summary
Experienced Primate Keeper with 10 years on the primate team at Twycross Zoo caring for a wide range of primate species. DMZAA qualification achieved in 2020. Previously an apprentice at Twycross Zoo working on all animal sections around the zoo and has prior experience working domestic pets and livestock. Skilled in reading primate behaviour, group dynamics and positive reinforcement training. Approachable team player with excellent communication and time-keeping skills, dedicated to high welfare standards. Bringing a positive attitude to the workplace.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
5
5
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Primate Keeper
Twycross zoo
Atherstone, Warwickshire
2016.05 - Current
- Worked with a variety of species including guenons, gibbons , spider monkeys, callitrichids, lemurs, colobus and Langurs
- Providing enrichment
- Positive reinforcement training with species such as L'hoests , Howler Monkeys and gibbons
- Interacting with the public daily, also providing animal experiences such as Keeper for the day.
- Enclosure cleaning and maintenance.
- Monitored animal behaviour to identify early signs of distress or illness.
- Implemented enrichment activities, promoting natural behaviours amongst animals.
- Recorded detailed observations on individual animals for record-keeping purposes.
- Prepared diets for diverse species, ensuring proper nutrition.
- Distributing diets to the primates.
- Ensured safe environment for all zoo animals by carrying out daily enclosure inspections.
- Maintained animal health by performing regular checks and administering medication when required.
- Assisting in team catch ups and animal transfers.
- Inputting data into ZIMS
- Assisted in the design of new primate habitats, contributing towards animal welfare standards.
Apprentice animal keeper
Twycross Zoo
Atherstone, Warwickshire
2015.11 - 2016.05
- Supported keepers in completing daily tasks across all sections, including Apes, primates, birds and mammals.
- Acquired new skills quickly and applied them to enhance daily operations.
- Assisted in maintaining efficiency and productivity levels.
- Improved species knowledge.
Farm animal worker
Ash End Childrens Farm
Tamworth, Staffordshire
2013.10 - 2015.05
- Utilised manual tools effectively in daily tasks.
- Assisted with the birthing process of various livestock, ensuring smooth delivery.
- Trimmed hooves to prevent foot diseases in livestock.
- Monitored animal behaviour for signs of illness.
- Transported animals safely around the farm.
- Provided optimal care for livestock through regular feeding and health checks.
- Maintained cleanliness in the barn for a healthy environment for animals.
Education
DMZAA - Managment of Zoo and Aquarium Animals
Sparsholt College
Sparsholt, Hampshire 2018.10 - 2020.05
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management - Animal Care
Brooksby College
Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire 2013.10 - 2015.07
GCSEs -
John Cleveland College
Hinckley, Leicestershire 2011.09 - 2013.05
Skills
An approachable, highly motivated team member with excellent communication, teamwork, and time management skills Proven ability to stay calm under pressure, prioritize tasks efficiently, and make quick decisions to deliver positive results
- full clean driving license
- IT skills including ZIMS
- Mentored new keepers in daily husbandry routines, including enclosure cleaning, diet prep, and behavioural monitoring
- Animal training techniques
- Record-keeping
- Primate behaviour understanding
Timeline
DMZAA - Managment of Zoo and Aquarium Animals
Sparsholt College
2018.10 - 2020.05
Primate Keeper
Twycross zoo
2016.05 - Current
Apprentice animal keeper
Twycross Zoo
2015.11 - 2016.05
Farm animal worker
Ash End Childrens Farm
2013.10 - 2015.05
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management - Animal Care
Brooksby College
2013.10 - 2015.07
GCSEs -
John Cleveland College
2011.09 - 2013.05