Meet our Penguin Keeper - Katie
- Monday 14th September 2020
Penguin Keepers at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium
In this series we'll be chatting with our resident penguin keepers to learn more about their role here at SEA LIFE Kelly Tarlton’s Aquarium, and what got them interested in choosing this career path. Read on to learn more about the staff who ensure the health and wellbeing of our resident King and Gentoo penguins and get some insights into the people behind the uniform. Because unlike our resident penguins, it’s not always black and white.
Q: How long have you been a Penguin Keeper?
A: One month! I'm still in training at the moment but i absolutely love it! I’m studying marine biology and I have lots of experience with animals, I think those things combined with my positive attitude and love for animals definitely helped when I applied for the job! Coming into the interview I was SO nervous because it is my dream job, but when I sat down and started talking I realised how nice everyone is and that I didn’t need to worry!
Q: When did you realise you wanted to work with animals?
A: I’ve always wanted to work with animals! It was second nature to me, growing up on a farm we always had lots of animals around and I thought I would like to be a vet but I eventually changed my mind and wanted to do anything animal related and then I managed to score this job!
Q: What's your favourite part of the job?
A: I love giving the Gentoos pebbles for their nests. They can be very particular about which pebbles they take so it can be funny watching them pick and choose.
Q: Who is your favourite penguin?
A: Maggie. She’s one of the Kings, she is and old gal and she’s very sweet and gentle. She’s also a particularly beautiful penguin! She’s easy to feed and just a lovely little lady.
Get to know our other penguin trainers
Get Closer to our Colony of Penguins
Experience an on-the-ice encounter like no other, as you venture into the world's largest sub-Antarctic penguin colony display with Penguin Passport!
