In 2004 Anne did a traineeship in animal care at Parco Natura Viva in Bussolengo, Italy. A zoo that also takes in animals rescued from circuses, ex-pets and confiscated animals at customs. I was received with open arms and learned an incredible amount about many species while making friends and only speaking Italian!

I worked at different departments. At that moment the zoo was upgrading its facilities especially for the predators. The wolves already had a great new enclosure and the snow leopards were next. They also have a safari part, where the animals roam ‘free’ in big enclosures that you can drive through. They have a facility in the park to house scientists and students. All in all a great place to gain experience.

I fell in love with Pippo the hippo, rescued from a circus who came to say hallo every morning when I walked past. With the baby red pandas that had just been born and their cute fluffy parents who appeared to be fierce hunters. With the smart macaques and with the incredible keo bird. With the powerful spectacled bear who still elicits the urge to hug him (better not!). With the impressive lions who are so easy to work with compared to the much more cunning tigers. I could continue like this, since so many animals have their own appeal. But one stands out.

Cesarino was a young male chimp rejected by his mom. I took care of him and this was a heartfelt soul altering experience. I didn’t know it then, but he changed my future.