Series 4 Episode 4

Vets struggle to remove fishing debris from an endangered Green Turtle while the decision between two lions for breeding has to be made. A giraffe is reunited with his brother after many years and there is a new addition to a capuchin monkey family.  

A 24 kg turtle was bought to Taronga Zoo’s Wildlife Hospital at the end of January after being found by local residents tangled in an anchor rope more than eight metres under the water. Although still very active, the turtle which was thought to be female also had a length of fishing line hanging out of its mouth and wrapped around its right front flipper.

What animals do you work with?

I have worked in many divisions including the Taronga Wildlife Hospital, Bird division, Australian mammals, Asian division and Reptile Division I have worked with so many different animals at the zoo during my career.

As a vet nurse I get to look after every thing from tiny native mice to elephants.

How long have you been working as a vet at Taronga Zoo?

I started work at Taronga Zoo in January 1990 - so I have been here nearly 18 years. I graduated in 1984.

How did you get into Veterinary work as a profession?

Growing up in South Africa I was always interested in working with wildlife.