Susan Moore

Private Citizen

Jul 23, 2009

1. What interaction with an animal and/or nature in your life has had the biggest impact on you?

I love nature and all animals. I have had 4 cats over the last 28 years and can't imagine not having animals in my life. I am a volunteer zoo keeper at Flamingo Gardens and work with all native species and some non natives. I love my volunteer job and being with other animal lovers.

2. Did you have a favorite place in the great outdoors during your childhood? How about now??

I lived in NY until I was 13 and my favorite place was the Bronx Zoo. I could go everyday and love going to the zoo. Now my favorite place is the Everglades and Flamingo Gardens. My husband and I love to bike in Shark Valley and observe the birds and alligators and the peacefulness of the Everglades. We also love the mountains in Co. We feel very spiritual in the mountains.

3. As a former zookeeper, I would love to know what your favorite animal is, and why?

That is a difficult one as I love them all, but I would say I'm partial to the cat family. I love the similarities between the bob cat, panther and my domestic cats. Since working at Flamingo Gardens I have fallen in love with our native birds as well.

4. What do you think is the greatest environmental challenge facing us now, and what do you think will be the greatest challenge in the future?

Restoring the Everglades is a huge challenge and dealing with global warming. I am a huge recycler and I believe everyone in their small way can make a huge difference.

5. If you could give everyone one piece of advice regarding the environment and our natural resources, what would it be?

We should all enjoy and protect nature. The environment is very fragile and it is our responsibility to ensure that we don't destroy it.