Zoo Staff Weigh Animals with Food
- Staff at London Zoo use food to weigh animals for health checks.
- The method involves placing food next to scales to entice every type of creature.
- Creative approach ensures the well-being of the zoo's 14,000 animals.
ZSL London Zoo has commenced its annual weigh-in, a crucial event that spans a week and involves measuring the weight of approximately 400 animals out of the 14,000 housed at the facility. Angela Ryan, head of zoological operations, emphasized the significance of this data collection, which not only monitors the health of the animals but also contributes to conservation efforts in the wild. The zoo aims to ensure that the weights of the animals fall within healthy ranges, sharing this information with conservationists to aid in protecting species in their natural habitats. The weigh-in process involves not just measuring weight but also waist size, providing vital insights into the animals' overall health and growth patterns. Ryan noted that this information is particularly important for young animals, as it helps staff and veterinarians assess their development and determine appropriate medical interventions, such as anesthetic dosages. The data collected will be logged into a database for future reference and analysis. The event also presents unique challenges for the keepers, who must employ creative strategies to encourage various animals to step onto the scales. This aspect of the weigh-in is considered an enrichment activity for both the animals and the staff, fostering engagement and interaction. Ryan highlighted the complexity of weighing animals in shared exhibits, such as the rainforest area, where multiple species coexist and vie for attention during the process. Overall, the annual weigh-in at ZSL London Zoo serves as a vital tool for animal care and conservation, ensuring that the health of the zoo's inhabitants is closely monitored while contributing to broader wildlife protection initiatives.