For example, food and shelter are provided, and the animals are protected from potential predators. Some animals have mates and raise their offspring, while others are not in breeding situations. Animal keepers find very creative activities to fill the animals' time. These enrichment activities not only entertain the animals and relieve boredom, but also improve the animals' health, discourage unhealthy activities, stimulate natural behaviors, and create a more natural environment for the animals. Some popular enrichment choices at Dickerson Park Zoo include popsicles, hidden treats and unusual toys.
Popsicles are food items such as fruit or fish frozen in water.
Our primates enjoy apples, cantaloupe, grapes or almost any fruit frozen in orange-flavored water, while otters and wolves prefer fish or meat popsicles. The animals are entertained for hours as they lick or chew on their tasty treats, and the treat helps keep them cool in the summer heat. Hidden items utilize an animal's natural food-procurement skills, such as hunting ability or sense of smell. Maned wolves, bears and felines enjoy searching out treats such as mice or smelt folded up in large paper grain sacks. The sacks usually end up in shreds in a short time, but the animals are always proud of their prizes.