DIVERSITY 1
My spouse and I enjoy watching TV shows about zoos. They must be popular programs as at least 3 stations offer them. It is fascinating to see how some of the animals are trained. Not to do “circus tricks”, but to cooperate for their own wellbeing. It surprised me to see the extent of care zoos provide for their inhabitants. Among the procedures we were able to view, was a tusk removed from an elephant, physical therapy for a flamingo chick who had trouble weight bearing, and witnessed a half dozen births of a variety of critters, most of whom were members of an endangered species. Some of the veterinarians risk injury while treating their patients.
The caregivers often form emotional bonds with their charges, be it with a snake, or penguin. One week focused on giraffes, one of whom had to be put down. It was very emotional for the caretakers, and for me. I fast forwarded through that section! (we usually tape the programs)
I find it amazing when I consider the number of species on our planet—and the variations within the species. For example, there are 35 types of sparrows in North America, one of which is the harbinger of spring—the humble robin.
One of the features put the spotlight on monkeys. I had no idea there are so many different types, and we saw only a dozen or so. There were howler monkeys, tamarinds, snow monkeys, owl monkeys, orangutans, baboons, and of course, those entertaining chimps! Baby animals were the focus of one of the shows, and I just melted. Oh how cute! I do not find rhinoceros particularly endearing, but the offspring certainly are. Did you know that they do not develop the horns until after birth?? It was nice of God to design a method to spare the mother too much pain in delivery.
An observation we hear repeatedly is how each critter has it’s own personality. All are given personal names, whether it is an otter or a bird. Trust is a key element while working with the animals. Caretakers need a great deal of patience because training has to be done according to the “students' ” idiosyncrasies. Some of the captive residents are very ugly, in my opinion, while others are stunningly beautiful. Most provide plenty of opportunity for some great photography, too.
Animals have many habitats from the snow capped mountains to the depths of the ocean. Some have yet to be discovered. You may have noticed I titled this post, Diversity 1. There is so much more I could write about this subject, I am sure to revisit it again.
So, where am I heading with all this? I hope to some interesting questions like: what are your favorite animals, and why? What are you doing to protect endangered species? When is the last time you visited a zoo? Most are open year round. It’s an outside activity, therefore, safer to do in these days of death threatening viruses. Or, if you haven’t the time, find a comfortable viewing location nearby, and just see how many different animals come into view. What are you waiting for?? Grab your camera and head out the door.
