WINNIPEG – June 12, 2008 – On Saturday, June 14, 2008, the visiting public is invited to attend the first annual event at the Zoo called Animal Enrichment Day. This year’s theme is “Come and Play the Animal Way.” Zookeepers will be on hand to reveal how they enrich the lives of animals in their care by providing special “toys,” hidden treats, and enticing scents. The goals are to stimulate the animal’s natural behaviours and physical activities, comparable to their wild-ranging relatives. It has been shown that this enrichment greatly helps in preventing stress, boredom, and obesity in captive animals.

From 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., eight special presentations are scheduled, highlighting popular animals (e.g., Golden Takin, Siberian Tiger) and creatures at major facilities (Tropical House, Kinsmen Discovery Centre). Five play stations for visitors, located by the Monkey House, offer interactive games and puzzles, simulating what is presented to the animals. While public feeding of animals at the Zoo is usually not permitted, on this day, healthy treats may be purchased from the Zookeepers and offered to selected birds, fish and turtles.

Regular admission applies, but the Enrichment Day programs are free. Zoo hours are 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.