This is the first of a series of articles that are based on featuring Zoo animals. Periodically, this reporter will travel to the Louisville Zoo and get an in-depth insight into the lives of a various animal type at the Zoo.
Apparently, it was decided that we would start at the top of the food chain; with the Lions. I have zero experience with large cats. In fact, I have never really been impressed with the lions that I have seen at the various zoos of my travels.
Was I a bit mistaken! We met Zoo Keepers Jessie Grizzle and Angela Johnson for the Lions Feeding routine. The Lions apparently have a fairly regular schedule. The lions really don’t like to be kept waiting.
The 2 Keepers work in a buddy system type of fashion, for safety. That is the Louisville Zoo’s policy; which is not a uniform standard with zoos. First, they look thru a peephole, to make sure that the lions are secure behind their cage doors. They then work in unison to double check each of the locks. They are armed with only a radio and pepper spray.
Once that was completed, we were allowed in to witness the feeding routine. This was the interesting part. For starters, we had a unique scent; which the Lions were not used to. They definitely took note when we came in. Unfortunately photographs in the keeper areas are not permitted; or you would see the immense size of these animals.
The male, Kenya is 10 years old. He weighs 428.lbs, and hails from Missouri. Very few of the Animals from the zoo, ever come from the wild. They are given haven from other captivity, here at the Louisville Zoo. Kenya stood across from me. He comes up to my chest area in height; much larger than any dog. Great Danes, St. Bernards & Irish Wolfhounds are all small in comparison.
The feeding routine is interesting. An approximately 5lb feeding bucket of raw meat balls, and a metal rod are used. The Keeper pushes a meat ball onto the rod; pushes in thru the bars and into the Lion’s mouth. Commands are used to attempt positive training reinforcement. The lions often put their paws specific places and can even roll over for the food. However, participation is voluntary. The Lions do not have to participate, and are never negatively reinforced for any training.
Amanda is the most responsive of the group. She is 12 years old. Kariba (also 12 yrs), gives a spin for food. Kenya looks at me and growls for dessert. His eyes were about the size of tennis balls. His paws reminded me of a large metal vice from shop class. Until you have seen one of these magnificent beasts up close; you really can’t appreciate their presence in such an exhibit.
Unfortunately, about the only way to see these animals up close; is to work here at the Zoo. Degrees in Biology and Ecology are common. The zoo also has a 4 yrs worth of experience handling exotic animals qualification that they can explain in further detail. The Keepers admittedly stated that working with carnivorous animals can be very stressful. They were quick to say, that some days it is much harder to handle than others. When you’re sick or already stressed; the adrenalin that comes from being close to such creatures can be highly stressful.
That stress may be a good thing. The longer that I was there with them; The more that I relaxed and began to talk with my hands. Kenya was quick to look at my hand; as if it was a hot-dog game with your dog. My cameraman Mike Phillips was quick to nudge me not to move.
These magnificent animals are a part of the regular exhibit at the Louisville Zoo. Stop by and visit them 363 days per year. The Zoo is closed only Christmas and New Years day.
http://www.louisvillezoo.org/index.htm
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