Meet the Keepers

Rain or shine, snow or sleet, our Wildlife Keepers show up 365 days a year for the animals who live here.

They prepare species-specific diets, gather fresh browse (ie: gathering fresh branches, leaves, twigs, and other natural plant material for animals to eat and interact with), clean and maintain habitats, and design enrichment that keeps animals active, curious, and practicing the wild skills that make them who they are. It’s hands-on, boots-on-the-ground work—and it makes all the difference.

But they don’t just care for wildlife, they help people care, too. Join them for daily Keeper Talks at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to learn about the animals you’re meeting, their lives in the wild, and how Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife works to conserve these species across the state.

Of course, keepers aren’t alone. Guest services staff, maintenance crews, event coordinators, and dedicated volunteers all work together to make the park safe, welcoming, and unforgettable.

Want to be part of the team?

Explore current job opportunities and help keep Maine wild.

The Crew

Ben Barrett

Wildlife Keeper since 2023 | Assistant Superintendent since 2024 

BA, Communications, Keene State College
Maine & Arkansas Master Naturalist

  • Why he loves it: “Every day brings a new story to bring home to my daughters — and new chances to learn, teach, and advocate for wildlife.”
  • A question he welcomes: “Why is that enclosure empty?” Because we only care for non-releasable wildlife and will never take an animal from the wild just to fill a space.
  • What he hopes you leave with: A spark of curiosity and the motivation to protect the wildlife and wild places that make Maine special.

Jade Canak

Wildlife Keeper Since 2022

BA, Aquarium & Zoo Science, Saint Francis University

  • Why she loves it: “Watching someone fall in love with Maine’s wildlife never gets old. If a guest leaves caring more than when they arrived, that’s a win.”
  • Keeper Superpower: Animal intuition. After years with our residents, Jade can spot subtle changes in behavior and advocate for their health before small issues become big ones.
  • Most unforgettable moment: Raising orphaned moose calves. That means round-the-clock bottle feedings and stepping in as a stand-in parent – exhausting, but incredibly rewarding.

Jake Piper

Keeper Since: January 2026 

BS, Wildlife Conservation Biology, University of Rhode Island

  • Why he loves it: “Being able to provide safe and engaging lives for animals that otherwise would not be able to thrive in the wild.”
  • Common misconception heard around the Park: That cougars are naturally occurring in Maine. There are no known natural breeding populations of cougars here.
  • Advice for future keepers: Never give up! After earning my degree almost 20 years ago, I finally found an opportunity to start my wildlife career.

Quinn Santos

Keeper Since: January 2026 

BS in Animal Science from UNH

  • Why he loves it: “Watching the animals enjoy an enclosure or enrichment I built.”
  • Favorite Animal Fun Fact: If you stand next to an owl they can hear your heartbeat!
  • Funniest misconceptions heard around the Park: That porcupines can shoot their quills!