My name is Sarah, and I'm the Senior Keeper of the Native Fauna department at Monarto Zoo. Many people would not realise that Monarto is actually home to a vast range of Australian native species, hidden behind the scenes at the Zoo. Our role is to breed a range of threatened species, like wallabies, brush-tail bettongs, bilbies, Tassie devils and malleefowl to name a few, either for the purpose of re-introduction to the wild, or as insurance populations.

Here I am with two little Tassie Devil joeys - aren't they so cute! 

Zookeepers in the Native Fauna department are always monitoring for signs of breeding; which involves skilled hands on techniques, pouch checking, and the ability to sex young joeys, not much larger than a jelly bean! We also have many opportunities to work out in the field too, taking measurements, DNA sampling and ID methods. Of course, just like all zookeepers, it's not always glamorous - there's always another exhibit to clean, and food to prepare!!! But I do hope you'll stick with us as we journey into the world of Australian natives!! I'm sure there will be many exciting updates ahead, particularly on the baby front...........................

Cheers for now, and until next time.

Sarah Washford
Senior Keeper of the Native Fauna, Monarto Zoo