Ross Taylor

Black Rhinoceros Keeper, Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Section/animals worked with:

Most species in zoo I have worked with but have spent majority of time working with the Black Rhinos since 1995.  

How long have you been working as a zookeeper?

I began my career at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in 1992, so almost 18 years.

How did you get into zoo keeping as a profession?

I started breeding parrots as a hobby in 1991 and wanted to do a TAFE course in animal care, the only option was the zoo keeping course. I did this and learned much about the zoo and people who worked there before applying for a position and was successful on my third attempt.

What do you love most about your job?

The animals and all their personalities.

What has been the wildest moment of your career so far?

11 rhino births and the recent developments in IVF procedures with the Leibniz Institute of Zoo and Wildlife Research team from Germany.