She began her journey back in 1996, when the zoo was still known as Paradise Wildlife Park. Her first five years were spent gaining invaluable hands-on experience as a volunteer and seasonal worker, often alongside a much-loved, sturdy Shetland pony named Bart, who quickly became one of her earliest animal companions.
On Claire’s very first day, she arrived eager to impress but unsure where the keeper entrance was. She stopped to ask the first person she saw for directions, a man who politely pointed her the right way. Moments later, a fellow member of staff whispered, “Do you know who that was?” It turned out to be Peter Sampson, the founder of the zoo. It was a memorable beginning to what would become a remarkable career.
Over the past three decades, Claire has worked with almost every species at the zoo. From the legendary Rocky the tiger, whom she fondly recalls as being “wonderfully different to any other cat” she had worked with, to present day favourites such as Newt the gibbon and our cheeky colony of African penguins. Her experience, knowledge, and calm presence have touched every corner of the zoo.
A deep passion for conservation runs through Claire, as it does for all our keepers. In 2019, she travelled to South Africa to see first-hand the work of SANCCOB, one of our conservation partners, who rescue and rehabilitate seabirds. Claire described the experience as “an emotional moment”, witnessing the incredible dedication and compassion of the teams working tirelessly in the field.
That commitment to conservation led Claire to take on one of her greatest personal challenges. Alongside our CEO, Lynn Whitnall, and four other colleagues, she swam across the English Channel to raise vital funds for a charity close to her heart. Claire described the experience as “exhausting but so worth it”.
Our Curator, Jessie, reflects on Claire’s impact since she joined the zoo in 2006:
“Claire has been a constant and key part of the zookeeping team. She has experienced every aspect of zookeeping the highs and the lows. Claire’s dedication, resilience, adaptability, and genuine love for the animals make her an invaluable part of the zoo.”
Claire’s favourite part of her role is welcoming new animals and getting to know their individual personalities. As a cover keeper, no two days are ever the same one day she may be caring for the biggest cats in the world, and the next she will be working with birds in our free-flight demonstrations.
Over the years, many animals have left a lasting impression, but one in particular stands out: Bobby the cockatoo. Claire remembers him fondly, saying, “He was the most intelligent, funny animal to work with. He had a real personality. I think about him a lot, I made so many memories with him.”
Lynn Whitnall says:
“Claire has been an invaluable and dedicated part of the team and dear friend. Her passion for wildlife, animal care, and conservation is exactly why I hope she has many more years ahead of her here at Hertfordshire Zoo.”
Thank you, Claire, for 30 years of dedication, compassion, and unforgettable service. 💚
