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Ron Surratt has been working with animals for more than 40 years. As the Fort Worth Zoo’s animal collections director, he plays an important role in finding new animals to join the Zoo’s collection and making sure all the animals are well cared for once they are at the Zoo. Ron has experience with species of all kinds, from mammals to birds to reptiles. I recently sat down with Ron to ask him some questions about his work with animals. Here’s what he had to say:
What is your educational/professional background?
I began working in the wildlife field in 1970. For the first 16 years, I worked in drive-thru safari parks where most of the animals roamed free in large acreage. During those same years, I was also involved in animal transport, both domestic and international.
While working at a park in New York City owned by Warner Brothers, I did a great deal of public relations work (on TV) with animals to promote the park.
Prior to joining the Fort Worth Zoo, I operated an animal transport business for 10 years and also consulted with game ranchers in the private sector.
Since coming to the Fort Worth Zoo, I have had the privilege of working on conservation projects in Africa and Asia – most notably the Mountain Bongo Project in Kenya since 2001.
Ron is the executive director of the International Bongo Foundation. This position often takes him to Kenya, where he collaborates with conservationists (such as these officials from the Kenya Wildlife Service) in the fight to save the endangered mountain bongo.
How long have you worked at the Fort Worth Zoo?
I started working at the Fort Worth Zoo in 1995.
Explain your job responsibilities.
I provide management of the animal collection together with the Zoo curators, participate with animal collection planning and exhibit design and construction and facilitate coordination between the animal collection department, veterinarians and the nutrition department.
Ron also serves as one of the Fort Worth Zoo’s media spokespeople. When reporters come to the Zoo, Ron shares animal facts and stories about the Zoo’s conservation efforts.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy working directly with the animals, getting to collaborate on exhibit design and participating in conservation projects.
Participating in conservation projects is a rewarding part of Ron's job. He got to witness the release of these bongos into the wild in Kenya.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
The animal part is easy, the humans present the challenge.
Explain a “typical” day of work.
I have meetings with the various curators; I explore the animal facilities, exhibits and collection; I meet with other Zoo departments to coordinate projects, operations, maintenance and other activities involving the animal collection.
Of all the animals you have worked with, which do you find the most fascinating?
I find all of the animals fascinating, but I particularly enjoy large mammals.
Ron enjoys large mammals, like this bongo that he met in Kenya.
What advice do you have for kids who are interested in following your career path?
Be persistent to get a job in the field and work hard. Expose yourself to all aspects of the job. Be adaptable and think out of the box.
If you want to get a job like Ron, getting experience in the field is crucial!
Anything else you’d like to share about your job?
I have always found this career to be rewarding and exciting.
