Elements and Performance Criteria
- Identify reptiles
- Define the profile of non-venomous reptiles commonly held in a facility, including habitat, nutrition, health and behavioural characteristics
- Identify external features using industry terminology
- Classify reptiles using industry terminology
- Define, interpret and document colours, markings and other identifying features
- Identify and evaluate behavioural and housing needs
- Monitor water quality, heating and lighting and make adjustments to maintain the environment appropriate for the species being housed, as directed by supervisor
- Recognise signs of distressed reptile and report to supervisor
- Identify industry standards and guidelines for housing design, environmental factors and appropriate stocking densities
- Evaluate current animal housing design in relation to the welfare of reptiles kept and legislation requirements
- Assess and implement enrichment activities for specific reptile species
- Catch, handle and restrain reptiles
- Identify WHS risks associated with handling and restraining reptiles, and implement methods to minimise risks
- Select and use appropriate equipment used to catch, handle and restrain reptiles
- Approach and catch non-venomous reptiles while minimising risks to animal and others
- Restrain reptiles using approved animal welfare management procedures
- Assist with health care needs
- Feed reptiles
- Identify digestive system features and relate to reptile-specific feeding routines and diets
- Identify preferred food sources and assess samples for quality and suitability
- Identify potential feeding hazards and implement risk control options
- Prepare food in accordance with dietary needs
- Distribute feed according to schedule/feeding plan
- Maintain records
- Complete feed and treatment records noting food consumption, health and care activities
- Report abnormalities to supervisor
- Complete documentation relevant to licences and transport, where required
- Define the profile of non-venomous reptiles commonly held in a facility, including habitat, nutrition, health and behavioural characteristics
- Identify external features using industry terminology
- Classify reptiles using industry terminology
- Define, interpret and document colours, markings and other identifying features