Primates
We are not accepting applications for this program at this time.
The Primate Interpreter Program includes species from ring-tailed lemurs to western lowland gorillas. The unifying theme is primates, their lifestyles, and their cognitive abilities. Interpreters will be covering all species in the Great Ape House, on Gibbon Ridge, and on Lemur Island and species and topics in the Think Tank Exhibit.
The 440-foot-long O Line, which allows orangutans to travel between the Great Ape House and Think Tank, is also included in the scope of the Primate Interpreters.
Interpreters will learn the natural history, conservation status, and Zoo management of seven species of primates as well as the leaf-cutter ants and hermit crabs in Think Tank. They will also learn the individual histories of many of these animals and share all this information with visitors in a largely conversational manner.
Think Tank is an exhibit about a process that cannot be seen—only inferred from observing behavior: thinking. It explores the areas of tools, language, and social living to determine if particular behaviors are thinking or non-thinking.
Special qualifications: A strong interest in primate species and the themes of Think Tank, a desire and an ability to talk with a wide variety of people, and a tolerance for the extremes of Washington's summer.
Time commitment: Three three-hour shifts a month for a year, monthly meetings, and support of exhibit-related special events.
Age requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to apply.
Training: Training will not be conducted in 2012.
