University students participate in conservation initiatives at Taronga Zoo

As part of their final year of the Taronga Wildlife Conservation degree, eight university students recently participated in conservation initiatives undertaken at the Zoo, learning from expert practitioners and developing essential skills to take forward into their careers.

The week at Taronga Western Plains Zoo was a combination of theory and practical where students learnt about the numerous native conservation breeding programs based in Dubbo, including the Plains-wanderer, Regent Honeyeater and the Greater Bilby programs.

Emma Thompson, University Program Coordinator and Lecturer at Taronga notes “the Taronga Wildlife Conservation degree inspires the next generation of advocates for the protection of wildlife. Students learn both theory and practical skills at Taronga and the University of Sydney.”

The course is part of the unique alliance between Taronga and the University of Sydney, formed in 2018. This alliance is the only one of its kind in Australia, providing a learning experience at both institutions.

Thompson added “these students were the first to undertake the final year of the course so it provided them with a more personalised experience.

“The feedback so far from the week in Dubbo has been overwhelmingly positive. Students have commented that it was the best week ever and they loved the content and practical experience offered and gained.

“This degree provides students with skills for the protection of species, habitats and ecosystems and prepares them for a range of careers, from working with a non-government organisation through to developing policy or conducting vital research.”

Next year over 40 students will undertake the week at Taronga Western Plains Zoo to experience a similar program as part of their final year of study.

Image courtesy of  taronga.org.au/