Tim Snyder is the Vice President of Zoological Operations and Programs, leading and directing animal care staff, animal husbandry, and the development of new animal habitats at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Remembering his visits to the Zoo as a child, he understands the value of connecting people with animals and nature and is excited to be able to do so on a day-to-day basis. 

With a focus in avian husbandry and care and background in horticulture, Tim has worked at several other Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA)-accredited facilities, such as Birmingham Zoo, St. Louis Zoological Park, and San Antonio Zoo, before joining Brookfield Zoo Chicago in 2008. He has helped shape the institution’s future, most recently supporting the development of the Next Century Plan and the new Tropical Forests exhibit. 

He also currently manages the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plans (SSP) for blue-grey tanagers and red-capped cardinals. He has a certification in ornamental horticulture from DuPage Horticultural School and has taken multiple courses with the Association of Zoos & Aquariums.  

While he’s often drawn to whatever animal he’s currently learning about the most (like gorillas during the development of Tropical Forests), birds of any kind will always be closest to his heart.