Welcome back to another edition of Zookeeper Diaries! In this installment, we’re shining a spotlight on Thane Maynard, the famed zookeeper, conservationist, and Director of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Join us as we delve into Thane’s remarkable career and the incredible impact he’s had on wildlife conservation and education.
A Lifelong Passion for Wildlife
Thane Maynard was born and raised in Florida, where he developed a deep love for wildlife and the outdoors from an early age. This passion led him to pursue a career in zoology, ultimately earning a Master’s degree in Wildlife Ecology from the University of Michigan.
A Career in Conservation
Thane has dedicated over four decades of his life to wildlife conservation and education. He began his career at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in 1977, where he has held numerous positions, including Curator of Education, before being named the Director in 2009.
A Dynamic Leader
Under Thane’s leadership, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has grown into one of the top zoos in the United States, with a focus on sustainability and conservation. Thane has played a pivotal role in developing and implementing numerous conservation programs, both locally and globally, to protect endangered species and their habitats.
A Voice for Wildlife
Thane Maynard is also known for his work as a wildlife communicator. He is the host of the nationally syndicated radio program “The 90-Second Naturalist,” which provides listeners with fascinating insights into the natural world. Thane is also the author of several books, including “Hope for Animals and Their World,” co-authored with Jane Goodall.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As an educator, Thane has inspired countless individuals to learn about and appreciate the natural world. His commitment to wildlife education has led him to teach courses at several universities and develop educational programs for people of all ages at the Cincinnati Zoo.
Thane Maynard’s extraordinary career and unwavering dedication to wildlife conservation have had a significant impact on the field. His leadership at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and passion for educating the public about the importance of preserving our planet’s biodiversity make him a true inspiration to future generations.
We hope you enjoyed learning about the incredible life and accomplishments of Thane Maynard! Stay tuned for more exciting stories from our Zookeeper Diaries series, where we continue to celebrate the lives and work of renowned zookeepers and conservationists from around the world.
Until next time,
Alex