SNAKES EYES ON AN EXCITING VOCATION
EDUCATION
MANY organisations will offer a certificate in animal studies or similar which can be the first step to becoming a reptile handler. There are no formal educational requirements for the job usually but as much experience handling reptiles as possible should be accumulated. This can often be achieved by becoming a member of a wildlife rescue organisation. Knowledge about different types of species is also essential.
TRAINING
Reptile handlers often enter the industry after years of training and experience in a science or zookeeper background. Further training could be required to keep up with reptile behavioural changes due to changing habitats or weather patterns. Handlers with a specific set of experiences an skills may choose to go into business by themselves and could benefit from further training in bookkeeping or accounting.
PAY SCALE
Reptile handlers can earn anywhere between $40,000 and $70,000 depending on skills, experience and where the person is employed. Government organisations may pay higher salaries.
WHO TO CONTACT
The Australian Herpetological Society could provide helpful information via their website www.ahs.com.au but other useful avenues could be through talking to a local snake or reptile handler.