Practical Zoo Nutrition Course

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute – Center for Conservation and Sustainability (CCS), in partnership with ITAIPU Binacional, is pleased to announce the Practical Zoo Nutrition Course. This training will equip participants with foundational and applied knowledge in wildlife nutrition, dietary planning, and commissary operations for zoological institutions.

The course is designed for professionals working in Latin American zoos and wildlife institutions who are involved in or responsible for the nutritional management of animals under human care.

Course Overview

Participants will gain hands-on and conceptual knowledge in:

  • Practical principles of feeding animals across all taxa
  • Diet formulation and evaluation
  • Nutrient and energy metabolism of wild and zoo animals
  • Commissary design and food logistics
  • Clinical diet planning and nutritional diagnostics
  • Problem-solving for common nutrition-related challenges

Instructors

  • Michael Maslanka, Head of Nutrition, Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute
  • Erin Kendrick, Clinical Nutritionist, Smithsonian’s National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute
  • Additional invited lecturers from regional institutions

Course Details

Dates

August 11–15, 2025

Location

TEKOTOPA – ITAIPU’s Environmental Center
Hernandarias, Paraguay

Language

The course will be conducted in English (intermediate to advanced level recommended)

Capacity

Limited to 20 participants

Course Fee

  • Early Bird Rate (apply by May 30): USD 300
  • Regular Rate (apply by June 30): USD 350

Cost includes:

  • Course instruction and materials
  • Field activities
  • Housing and meals during the course
  • Certificate of participation

Who Should Apply?

This course is designed for:

  • Wildlife nutrition professionals
  • Biologists and veterinarians
  • Zoological staff involved in dietary management
  • Professionals and students with a strong interest in animal nutrition

Application Process

To apply, please send the following to Ana Griffin at griffinac@si.edu:

  • A résumé (maximum 2 pages)
  • A statement of interest (maximum 1 page)

Acceptance notifications will be sent on a rolling basis. Early submission is strongly encouraged due to limited space.