Charles Paddock Zoo announces new zoo director

The City of Atascadero has named Dr. Cynthia Stringfield as the new director of the Charles Paddock Zoo. The previous director, Alan Baker, retired in April after 23 years at the zoo.

Dr. Stringfield has a long career in zoology and is moving from her current position as Senior Vice President of Animal Health, Conservation and Education at ZooTampa. She has also been a professor at Moorpark College, a member of the Santa Barbara Zoo’s animal care and health team, and a veterinarian and director of the Los Angeles Zoo.

Dr. Stringfield has been instrumental in keeping zoos accredited with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). She was also a major figure in the successful California condor recovery program.

His education includes a doctorate from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from UC Davis, graduating with honors.

The Charles Paddock Zoo is one of 238 AZA-accredited zoos in the country and the only one within 100 square miles of Atascadero. Dr. Springfield is expected to play an important role in maintaining this certification.