Every summer, visitors to the Delhi zoo are left disappointed with sleepy animals’ disappearing act. But this summer promises to be different as zoo officials have lined up a series of activities for the animals to keep them active and healthy. With ropes and swings tied from trees, the animals will be kept busy in the daytime making it an enjoyable experience for onlookers.
For animals like chimpanzee, lion-tailed macaques and Hullock Gibbon, the authorities have planned stretching activities. “Summers are here and the animals tend to get very lazy and refuse to move. These are not only techniques to keep them engaged but also to increase their endurance levels. The complex combinations will help sharpen their mental abilities,” said zoo curator RA Khan.
For lion-tailed macaques, zoo officials have designed a triangular pattern with ropes, whereas chimpanzees will only have ropes strung across trees leading from their caves on a hilltop. Veterinarians recommend minimum two hours of physical activity for such animals to stay fit. “At least two hours is essential. Just like humans, controlling the weight of animals too is of utmost importance. Any kind of physical activity on a daily basis will help increase their longevity. It also makes them less susceptible to infections,” he added.
For tigers, lions, jaguars and other big cats, zoo officials have changed their way of getting food. “Till now they used to get food on a platter. Now they will have to hunt for their food. We have put at least eight to nine covered baskets in each cage. The animals will now have to pick the food from the basket on their own,” he added. The move is also aimed to ensure equal distribution of food among animals. “When the food is served in open, the stronger ones always get the lion’s share. But now everyone will have to pick food from the holes in the basket,” said Khan. For giraffe, chimpanzee, monkeys and other animals who can reach out to trees, food shall be hung on branches.
Meanwhile, with day temperature soaring, zoo authorities have begun making adequate arrangements for the inhabitants. “Coolers are being repaired and will be put in the cages by next week. The wooden platforms which were put for winters have been removed and windows and open roofs which are largely exposed to sunlight are being covered,” said Khan.