Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Behavioral Enrichment • Veterinary Procedures • Animal Ambassador Programs

Social Housing

Term from Zoological Management industry explained for recruiters

Social Housing refers to the practice of keeping animals together in groups that match their natural social behaviors and needs. In zoos and wildlife facilities, this is an important approach where animals that naturally live in groups or pairs in the wild are housed together rather than alone. This practice helps maintain the animals' psychological well-being, allows natural behaviors, and often leads to better breeding success. For example, meerkats would be kept in family groups, while some species of tortoises might be housed individually as they are naturally solitary.

Examples in Resumes

Designed and implemented Social Housing programs for primates following AZA guidelines

Managed successful Social Housing arrangements for multiple species of big cats

Developed behavioral enrichment activities for Social Housing environments

Typical job title: "Animal Care Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Zookeeper Animal Welfare Specialist Animal Behavior Specialist Wildlife Care Manager Animal Housing Coordinator Animal Husbandry Specialist

Where to Find Animal Care Specialists

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where previously compatible animals start showing aggressive behavior in a social housing setup?

Expected Answer: A senior specialist should discuss assessment protocols, separation procedures, documentation requirements, and strategies for either resolving conflicts or finding alternative housing arrangements while maintaining animal welfare standards.

Q: How do you develop and implement a new social housing program for a species your facility hasn't housed before?

Expected Answer: Should explain research process, consultation with other facilities, risk assessment, gradual introduction techniques, and monitoring systems. Should mention importance of having backup plans and emergency protocols.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when introducing new animals to an existing social group?

Expected Answer: Should discuss age, sex, temperament considerations, quarantine procedures, introduction techniques, and monitoring methods. Should mention importance of having appropriate space and escape routes.

Q: How do you maintain records for social housing arrangements?

Expected Answer: Should explain documentation of animal interactions, health monitoring, behavioral observations, and any incidents. Should mention using these records for improving future housing arrangements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic signs that animals are compatible in social housing?

Expected Answer: Should identify positive behaviors like grooming, playing, sharing space comfortably, and eating together. Should also recognize signs of stress or incompatibility.

Q: Why is social housing important for zoo animals?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic concepts of natural behavior, mental stimulation, breeding success, and overall animal welfare. Should demonstrate understanding of species-specific social needs.