How to Be Circus Elephant Handler - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Aug 12, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Circus Elephant Handlers are responsible for the care and safety of circus elephants. They must have a deep understanding of elephant behavior, anatomy, and health. This knowledge is essential to ensure the safe handling of the animals.

The handlers must also have the physical strength to manage the large animals, as well as the ability to communicate with them. Poor handling of the elephants can lead to serious injury or even death. Therefore, the handlers must be attentive and knowledgeable when caring for the animals.

In order for the handlers to be successful in their roles, they must be trained properly. Training includes instruction on animal behavior, anatomy, and safety protocols. In addition, handlers must be able to recognize signs of distress and illness in order to ensure the well-being of the elephants.

Through proper training, handlers can ensure that the elephants are safe and healthy and that their performances are entertaining and captivating.

Steps How to Become

Research and understand the duties of a Circus Elephant Handler. Learn about the care and safety of elephants, their needs, behaviors, and diet.
Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent.
Take an animal care course or specialize in elephant care at a college or university.
Obtain a job as an apprentice or assistant at a circus that has elephants and learn from experienced handlers.
Apply for a full-time position as an elephant handler once you have enough experience and qualifications.
Follow all safety protocols and abide by all laws and regulations regarding animal care and safety.
Practice proper handling techniques so that you can work with the elephants safely and effectively.
Develop strong relationships with the elephants by providing them with food, care, and attention.
Maintain the elephants living areas and ensure they have plenty of room to move around and exercise.
Train the elephants to do various tricks and perform in shows.

Being a reliable and capable circus elephant handler requires a combination of skill, experience and knowledge. Knowing how to handle large animals with intelligence and respect is key. Taking the time to build trust and rapport with an elephant is essential as it allows handlers to anticipate the animal's behavior, understand their needs and communicate effectively.

Experience helps handlers to recognize signs of stress or discomfort in an elephant, be aware of their environment, and react quickly and appropriately. Proper training is also important for handlers to learn how to read the body language of an elephant, understand its behavior, safely position themselves around the animal, and maintain control in any situation. having the right combination of knowledge, experience and skill can help to create a reliable and capable circus elephant handler.

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Job Description

Train elephants in tricks and behaviors.
Maintain a safe environment for the elephants and visitors.
Monitor the health of the elephants and provide medical care as needed.
Clean and maintain the facility, including the living areas for the elephants.
Feed, bathe, and groom the elephants.
Ensure that the elephants are properly exercised and stimulated.
Create and implement enrichment activities for the elephants.
Work with other staff to plan and execute performances and shows.
Communicate with the public about elephant care and conservation.
Keep records of the elephants behavior, health, and other information.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Ability to safely handle large animals such as elephants
Knowledge of animal behaviors and body language
Excellent communication skills
Ability to follow safety protocols
Ability to work long and unpredictable hours
Ability to work in a variety of environments
Knowledge of different types of equipment used to train and handle elephants
Ability to think quickly and respond to changing situations
Ability to take direction from supervisors
Ability to provide and adhere to positive reinforcement techniques

Being an effective circus elephant handler requires a variety of skills and qualities. The most important skill to have is the ability to establish a strong bond of trust between the handler and the elephant. This relationship is built on mutual respect, understanding and patience.

The handler must be able to recognize the elephants specific body language and vocalizations, which can indicate the animals emotional state. The handler must also be able to use positive reinforcement to reward desirable behaviors and redirect undesirable behaviors. the handler must be knowledgeable of nutrition, health, and safety protocols for proper care and maintenance of the elephant.

Finally, the handler must be physically fit and able to handle the physical demands of the job, such as maneuvering and restraining the elephant when necessary. Having these skills and qualities helps to ensure the safety of both the elephant and the handler, and creates a positive experience for all involved.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working with circus elephants?
How do you create a positive relationship with circus elephants?
How do you ensure the safety of both the audience and the elephant?
What methods do you use to train and condition circus elephants?
How do you reduce stress and anxiety in circus elephants?
How do you work with circus elephants to ensure they are able to perform their tricks?
What techniques do you use to keep circus elephants healthy and well-groomed?
How do you handle difficult situations when a circus elephant does not want to cooperate?
What strategies do you have for motivating circus elephants during performances?
How do you handle emergency situations involving circus elephants?

Common Tools in Industry

Bullhook. A tool used for training and managing elephants. It consists of a handle with a curved metal hook at the end. (eg: trainer uses it to direct and control an elephant's movements)
Training Props. Objects used to help train an elephant to perform specific behaviors. (eg: trainer uses a ball to teach an elephant to roll over)
Positive Reinforcement. A technique used to encourage an elephant to repeat a desired behavior. (eg: trainer rewards an elephant with a piece of fruit after it successfully completes a trick)
Treats. Food items used to reward an elephant for performing desired behaviors or completing tasks. (eg: trainer gives an elephant a piece of watermelon after it completes a trick)
Lead Rope. A rope used to lead and guide an elephant during training and show performances. (eg: trainer attaches a lead rope to an elephant's harness and guides it around an arena)

Professional Organizations to Know

Professional Elephant Managers Association (PEMA)
International Elephant Foundation (IEF)
Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)
International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC)
American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK)
Elephant-Human Relations Aid (EHRA)
World Animal Protection (WAP)
The Elephant Sanctuary (TES)
Born Free USA
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)

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Common Important Terms

Animal Training. The practice of teaching animals to understand and respond to certain commands, cues, and behaviors.
Animal Wrangling. The practice of handling and corralling animals for film, television, or other performance productions.
Elephant Husbandry. The care and management of elephants, including health and nutrition, environmental enrichment, and training.
Elephant Behavior. The study of how elephants interact with their environment, each other, and humans.
Elephant Handling. The practice of working with elephants, including controlling their movements and behaviors, in order to ensure their safety and welfare.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are necessary to be a Circus Elephant Handler?

Potential Circus Elephant Handlers must have experience working with animals, a valid driver's license, and a minimum of 5 years of experience handling elephants.

What is the primary role of a Circus Elephant Handler?

A Circus Elephant Handler is responsible for the care and training of circus elephants, including feeding, bathing, and exercise, as well as providing positive reinforcement to encourage desirable behaviors.

What safety precautions should be taken when working with circus elephants?

When working with circus elephants, handlers should always wear protective gear such as heavy duty boots and gloves, use a barricade or barrier to keep the elephant at a safe distance, and keep treats out of reach to avoid encouraging unwanted behavior.

How many hours per day should an elephant handler work?

An elephant handler should generally work no more than 8 hours in a day. Longer shifts may be necessary in some cases, but should be avoided if possible.