While visitors to the Johannesburg Zoo marvel at its animals and lush green spaces, it is the people behind the scenes who keep the institution running every day of the year.
From animal care and veterinary science to education, maintenance and visitor experience, the zoo is powered by 154 permanent staff members, supported by casual workers, students and EPWP participants. Informal recyclers also contribute to sustainability through waste recovery.
“Our staff are the heart of the zoo. Their dedication, skills and passion allow us to operate as a leading conservation, education and recreational space. For many, this is not just a workplace, it's a calling," says Executive Manager Louise Gordon.
At the core is the Animal Welfare department, where curators, zookeepers and attendants care for animals across specialised sections. Each section demands expertise and daily commitment to ensure the wellbeing of every species.
The collection is organised into six sections: Alpha focuses on primates such as chimpanzees, baboons and lemurs; Bravo houses a diverse bird collection, including cranes, vultures and parrots; and Charlie is home to carnivores such as lions, tigers, leopards and hyenas.
Delta manages herbivores ranging from elephants, rhinos and giraffes to antelope species such as impala and eland. Foxtrot oversees aquatic life, including fish and stingrays, within the zoo's aquarium, while Tango cares for reptiles and invertebrates, including snakes, crocodiles and tortoises.
Supporting these teams is a fully equipped veterinary department, where vets, nurses and nutritionists provide round-the-clock care. From routine health checks to specialised procedures and carefully balanced diets, the team ensures the highest standards of animal care.
“Our veterinary and animal care teams work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to safeguard the health of every species in our care. It's a complex operation that visitors don't always see," Gordon notes.
Equally vital is the customer relations department, which shapes the visitor experience. The team manages educational programmes, biodiversity events, guided tours and fundraising initiatives, while also ensuring clear signage across the facility.
Through initiatives such as Zoo School, youth clubs, holiday programmes and guided tours, including a popular ferry-style game drive, the zoo continues to connect people with wildlife in meaningful ways.
Behind the scenes, the Technical and Horticulture department maintains infrastructure and green spaces, from enclosures and roads to gardens and sustainability systems such as solar installations and water storage.
“Our facility is more than a century old. While maintenance is ongoing, it also gives the zoo its unique character — a blend of heritage and modern conservation practice," says Gordon.
The finance team plays a critical role in sustainability, managing revenue, bookings and procurement to keep daily operations running smoothly.
“What makes the Johannesburg Zoo truly unique is the loyalty of its staff. Many have served for more than 30 years, reflecting a deep connection to the institution," Gordon adds.
Written by Sascha-Lee Joseph
15/04/2026
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