Meet Shane Elsinger


Education: B.S. Major: Biology
Minor: Captive Wildlife Management, UW Stevens Point

Grew up:
Spencer, WI

Length of Service:

Intern: 1991
LTE Zoo Keeper: 1992 & 1993
Full-time Zoo Keeper Hire Date: November 1993
Total: 19 years

Best part of job:
The actual time spent with the animals

What animals do you oversee at the Zoo?
Currently, I oversee the White Rhinos,Gracie and George, the Asian Tapirs (Rose and Snorkel), the African Lions (Henry and Vilas), and the Amur Tiger, Cyber. I have cared for just about every animal at one point in my 19 year career here at the Zoo!

Favorite animal:
Two House Cats, Trotts and Pudders. Trotts was adopted from Zoo Vet, Dr. Mike Peterson. Pudder was a cat who found its way into the keepers tunnel at the bear exhibits

Why?
They are freaks

Family:
Wife, two house cats

Free time:
I enjoy climbing rocks and mountains, road biking, archery and Nintendo.

Favorite movie:
The original Star Wars

Best time to see the animals:
Anytime is the best time!

Best place to have lunch in the zoo:
Staff break room

Best Book you have read lately?
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer and The Life of Pi by Yann Martel