We make it a point to ensure that the activities conducted for them are not repeated, and that each time some new element is introduced, all the seven penguins are involved: Dr Neha Shah
Even as activists bemoan a lack of activities, apart from a swimming pool, in the new enclosures for the penguins at Veermata Jijabai Bhosale (VJB) Zoo, officials from the zoo claimed that not only are the penguins being kept busy with several activities throughout the day, but there are even plans to add equipment for them to play with in their enclosures in the future.
“These seven Humboldt penguins are very playful and are extremely active, and we have been ensuring that they are kept engaged with various activities throughout the day. They love to give a chase, and so we have included laser-chasing activities for them, for which they not only come out of the water but even dive and jump around,” said Dr Madhumita Kale, the head veterinarian who is in charge of the penguins.
She added that apart from chasing laser lights, another activity that the penguins love involves playing with brightly coloured rings and balls that have been provided to them in their enclosure. “Molt and Donald are the first ones to go and grab the rings and they even put it around their necks and take it off while in the water. We do not agree to the allegations that they are feeling bored, as we keep monitoring them round the clock and all of them are extremely happy, alert and active,” said Kale, adding that the penguins are fed twice a day, once in the morning around 8.30 and the second time around at 3.30 pm. The penguins are also undergoing regular health checkups, Kale said.
Meanwhile, to get the penguins used to the rocks placed in the enclosure, the team at times even keeps their food, consisting of fish, at various different locations and even on top of the rocks, and the penguins then hop across to these spots to get their food. “We are also searching for equipment like slides and other such stuff that can help create more entertainment for them, but we are being extremely careful in choosing the right material to ensure that it’s safe. In fact, if we do not find what we need, we are even ready to design the same,” said Dr Neha Shah, who is part of the team.
Shah added that a lot of attention is being paid to keep the penguins in perfect condition. “We make it a point to ensure that the activities conducted for them are not repeated, and that each time some new element is introduced, all the seven penguins are involved,” she said.
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