Who's Who: Elephant Education Specialist Angie Reynolds

Have you been to African Elephant Crossing? If so, you may have heard her voice. Angie Reynolds is the Zoo's education specialist at the exhibit, and she's there to answer all your questions and give you the scoop on what's up with the Zoo's elephants. And she's easy to find - just look for her huge smile! (Angie loves her job and interacting with Zoo visitors and it shows.) Read on to find out a little more about her.
Name: Angie Reynolds

Residence: Brunswick

Hometown: Glencoe, Illinois

What do you do at the Zoo? I’m an Education Specialist at the brand new African Elephant Crossing exhibit. I have the opportunity to work with the keeper staff, volunteers, and of course, our fabulous guests on a daily basis.

What was the first Zoo job you ever had? I began my Zoo career in 2007 right here in Cleveland as the seasonal education events interpreter. I knew from my very first day that I needed to work at a zoo for the rest of my professional career.

Favorite animal: I love all of the large African mammals; giraffes, rhinos, lions. But my absolute favorite is the African elephant!

Favorite part of the Zoo: I like visiting the small, tucked away areas that not everyone knows about, like Waterfowl Lake and the zebra viewing deck. Those areas are listed on our map and I like to encourage our guests to visit them.

Why I work at the Zoo: I have always loved and respected animals. Working at the Zoo gives me the opportunity to share that passion with guests and help people to understand that we can make a difference for wild animals all over the world. It's really amazing when you get to witness a small child's realization that she can positively influence the future for her favorite animals.

Best thing about living in Northeast Ohio (other than the Zoo, of course!): My family enjoys going to the gardens at Stan Hywet Hall. It's so peaceful and beautiful.  It also inspires me and my husband to do more yard work at home!

A funny thing happened at the Zoo.  I really love listening to some of the stories some of our young guests are eager to share and watching their parents' reactions. It's also pretty funny when I see guests trying to imitate an animal. Once they realize I'm there they usually stop and giggle, but I encourage them to keep going! You should never take yourself too seriously to imitate an elephant, or a fish for that matter. Go ahead, try it. I guarantee it will make you smile!

One animal characteristic you wish you could have and why: This may seem strange, but I think it would be really neat if I could roar like a lion. Not really sure why, I’ve just always thought it was an awesome sound.


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