Angela Matthews

Angela Matthews, head keeper at Colchester Zoo, is a pillar of the Colchester Zoological Society. Having dedicated 23 years to the institution, she became the zoo’s first head keeper in 2021. This role acknowledges her leadership, extensive knowledge, and commitment to animal welfare and conservation.

Before taking on this position, Matthews spent a decade leading a diverse animal section, gaining broad experience with a wide variety of species. Her expertise has gone beyond daily husbandry to developing best practice guidelines; she co-authored several species management documents, including the EAZA husbandry guidelines for the pygmy hippopotamus. Her practical approach, combined with her scientific knowledge, has helped improve welfare and breeding standards across the zoo.

Matthews’ passion for avian conservation has achieved remarkable success through Colchester Zoo’s vulture breeding programme. Her accomplishments in rearing and managing various vulture species led to her partnership with VulPro in South Africa, where she shared her expertise to aid global efforts in conserving and breeding these vital yet vulnerable birds.

Alongside her work with vultures, Matthews acts as the European Studbook Keeper for the Smooth-coated Otter. In this capacity, she oversees breeding recommendations and population data to maintain the genetic health of this lesser-known yet ecologically important species. At home in Colchester, she continues to promote public education and engagement, helping visitors understand the significance of lesser-studied animals in conservation.

Through her dedication, scientific insight, and mentorship, Angela Matthews exemplifies modern zookeeping, combining compassion, technical skill, and leadership to advance both animal care and conservation.