Summary: Most people think of vets as the animal health professionals that look after cats and dogs and cows and horses. The normal domestic animals. There is another breed of veterinarians that look after wildlife and zoo animals. This work normally goes on behind the scenes. Wellington Zoo has just opened an interesting new facility that they call “The Nest”. “The Nest” is an animal hospital and centre for native wildlife care. The innovative thing about this facility is that the public can, and are actually encouraged to watch what goes on in an area that is usually “behind the scenes”. On a daily basis the expert team will talk visitors through operations as they happen, providing a unique insight into their profession and dedication. Dr Francois Lampen is the manager of veterinary science at the Wellington Zoo. The Nest website is www.wellingtonzoo.com/thenest
