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My Favorite Zoo: Frank Buck Zoo in Gainesville, Texas

Many people no longer recognize Dave as Critterman until he begins his programs. Why? Because last year he lost a staggering 68 lbs. He is still the same Critterman we all know and love, just a slimmer version of his former self.

Dave has the remarkable ability to capture children's attention and win their adoration. He began in high school when he worked as costume character Chuck E. Cheese. He quickly learned the magic of animated communication and unwavering patience.

Prior to enrolling as a student at America's Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College in 1988, Dave worked for thoroughbred race horse trainer Penny Lewis, and worked as a docent at Como Zoo in MN. While attending America's Teaching Zoo, Dave gained valuable experience working at Los Angeles Zoo, Santa Barbara Zoo, Monkey Jungle, and Universal Studios in Hollywood.

Since establishing Animal Edutainment, Inc. in 1990 with wife Sue, his Critterman presentations won him the honor of being voted "Best Party Idea" by the Dallas Observer. Animal Edutainment was also awarded "Best Traveling Zoo" in D Magazine's Best of Dallas Issue 2003.

Dave can be seen on various segments of The Most Extreme series which airs on Discovery Network's Animal Planet. He and several Animal Ambassadors have made numerous appearances at events for Wild Wonders of Bonsal, CA for Discovery Network. He has had the good fortune to work with Jack Hanna of Animal Adventures, Jeff Corwin of The Corwin Experience, Steve Irwin of The Crocodile Hunter, Jim Fowler & Peter Gros of Wild Kingdom, Chris & Martin Kratt of Kratt's Creatures, Zoboomofoo, & Be The Creature.
                     

Professional Memberships & Affiliations:

             American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK)
             President of the Assoc. of Professional Wildlife Educators (APWE)
             Animal Behavioral Management Alliance (ABMA)
             American Zoo & Aquarium Association (AZA)
             Informal Science Educators Association (ISEA)
             Texas Association of Environmental Educators (TAEE)
             Texas Aquarium & Zoo Educators (TAZE)
             Texas EE Advisory Com. Endorsed Site (TEEAC)
             Texas Environmental Education Partnership (TEEP)
             Texas Parent Teacher Association (PTA)