Jenna came to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in 2009 following her graduation from Indiana University, where she majored in biology and minored in animal behavior. Jenna began her Zoo career as an intern at the Commissary, which is where all of the animal food comes in and is then distributed to the different areas within the Zoo. She also took part in various animal encounters throughout the park. After completing her first internship, Jenna went on to intern in the Zoo’s Education Department and began guiding Nocturnal Adventures overnight programs.
Jenna works with the Maasai giraffes, greater flamingos, East African crowned cranes and Asian elephants. Her typical activities include cleaning out yards, stalls and pools, and working on enrichment training with the giraffes and cranes. Visitors can often find Jenna presenting the Giraffe Encounters or assisting trainers during the Elephant Encounters.
“I love giving the elephants enrichment and helping with Mai Thai’s elephant paintings,” says Jenna. Having the opportunity to connect with the public and teaching them about the animals she cares for is another favorite part of her job.
While Jenna has a busy schedule at the Zoo, she still makes time for her two dogs, chameleon and leopard gecko at home. Jenna is engaged to fellow Zoo employee Scott Wingate, who works in the Education Department.
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