07/21/2025
Our next keeper spotlight is Adrianna!
Out of our excellent Keeper III here at Potter Park Zoo! She’s been caring for our hoofstock animals for 8 years and serves as the Tufted Deer SSP Vice Coordinator!
Adrianna’s passion and patience shine through in every moment she spends with the animals. One of her favorite training moments was successfully getting an ultrasound on a past female tufted Deer. She was a very quick learner, patient, and motivated animal. After many failed ultrasound attempts, it was incredibly rewarding to finally see a baby fawn on the screen.
Another favorite training moment was when we were able to successfully draw blood on our male rhino, Phineus. Phineus is not quite as patient and calm like our female, Doppsee. It took close to a solid 6 months of continuous training and relationship building with vet staff. The day we got blood was so thrilling. It was myself, another keeper and the vet tech, we were all trying to control our excitement as to not spook Phineus. As soon as we put him on exhibit, it was all smiles and happy dances.
When we asked Adrianna what animals have taught her most, she shared this:
“A keen eye for details.
Working with hoofstock animals, you really have to pay attention to their habits, their routines, and their personalities to catch if something is off. Animals are known to hide any illnesses or discomforts so we have to be able to read those signs. It’s our job to catch the small signs before they become something bigger.”
We’re so grateful for Adrianna and all the incredible work she does! 💚
