Open in the zookeepers' kitchens

6-7 September

Come and take a look behind the scenes, where the keepers have their daily work and help feed animals around the garden.

Programme both days:

11.00-15.00: Open in the Predator Kitchen, Savannah Kitchen and South American Tropical House Kitchen

10.45: Help feed the warthogs

12.45 pm: Feeding at the spider monkeys in the South American Tropical House

13.45: Feeding polar bears

14.30: Help feed the coatis

Behind the scenes at the pet sitters

Being a zookeeper is something of a dream for many children, and perhaps adults too. It's also a job that involves getting close to many different animal species, and the whole idea of taking care of animals on a daily basis appeals to all of us who love animals.

Today, the job of animal carers is to ensure the best well-being and welfare of the animals. This is done by keeping the animals in enclosures that stimulate them to exhibit natural behaviour, feeding them nutritious food and enriching them with stimulating food and toys. Some animal species are also trained on a daily basis, both to check their health and to get them used to things like transport crates, receiving medication, and generally facilitating daily procedures with the animals.

Get up close and personal with the keepers and their animals this weekend and learn about the exciting work and amazing animals.