What qualifications do you need to become a Zoo-ologist?
Do you mean somone who studies zoos? As opposed to a person who studies animals - a zoologist? To become a zoologist you need to get at minimum an MS degree. Your undergraduate work could be in zoology, biology, ecology, wildlife biology. Then, for your MS, you would specialize in the organisms or aspect of zoology you are most interested in. To become someone who works in a zoo, you more likely need to major in a program in zoo science or wildlife care. These programs prepare you to care for and train animals as well as design zoo exhibits. You will also need a lot of volunteer/internship experience because these jobs are very competitive. But, if you really want to become a Zoo-ologist and study zoos, then I suspect having a degree in zoo science or wildlife care as well as a good business foundation would prepare you for analyzing the business of zoos.
How can zoos afford to feed their animals?
Revenue received is generally designated into an operating fund, whether this is from the admission at the gate or money raised from special events, etc. This budget is then spent on anything from food and supplies to pay wages and on. A lot of the higher profile animals such as polar bears, elephants and large cats are very expensive, which is why not all zoos have these animals as part of their exhibits and the diets of all zoo animals are very regulated and supervised. There are some companies that specifically cater to zoos and similar organizations that give bulk discounts, so the more they buy the more they save, which helps cut costs a little. Depending on the environment that the specific zoo is in, they may choose to have their own gardens, known as browse gardens, to grow specific plants and vegetables. They must be very careful to ensure that no pesticides or chemicals of any kind are used on these, so donations from the public are rarely accepted. Be assured that an accredited zoo will not keep an animal they cannot afford to feed, despite the enormous bill.
I want to work with wild/endangered animals!?
I work as a wildlife biologist and do exactly what you want to do..I study and monitor endangered species. I went to school and got my degree in zoology, but you could also do a couple other majors as well that can qualify you for this type of work including biology, wildlife management, wildlife biology, etc. I specialize in ornithology (birds) so mostly work with endangered birds but also do work with endangered reptiles and amphibians, small mammals, fish, bats, etc. Hands on experience counts just as much as a degree in this field so I suggest volunteer work, internships, and seasonal employment as well.