Christmas arrived ahead of schedule for the cherished orangutans at Perth Zoo this week, with the four primates delighting in an early gift-opening session filled with their favourite snacks.
A Festive Enrichment Activity
On Tuesday, the zoo's quartet of orangutans – Sungai, Lestari, Utama, and Pulang – were presented with brightly wrapped packages. After a moment of inspection, the intelligent apes eagerly set about the task of unwrapping their surprises.
"These guys are definitely on the nice list," remarked primate keeper Nadia Marina-Hart. She shared a close bond with the animals, comparing them to teenage children. The presents, hand-decorated by their dedicated keepers, contained a selection of prized treats including vegetables, popcorn, sunflower seeds, coconut, and rosemary.
More Than Just a Gift
While the event is a joyful yearly tradition, Ms Marina-Hart explained the activity serves a crucial purpose beyond festive fun. "Unwrapping or unboxing is an important enrichment activity that we try to do with them often," she said.
"It's extra special at Christmas, as they get their favourite foods, but in general it’s stimulating for their brains and mimics how they’d forage in the wild."
The zoo's keepers tailor enrichment activities daily to each orangutan's unique personality, ensuring their minds and bodies remain actively engaged, strengthening the bond between animal and keeper.
Conservation at the Heart of Perth Zoo
All eight orangutans at Perth Zoo were born on-site. The species is classified as critically endangered, and the zoo's work extends far beyond visitor exhibits into significant conservation efforts.
Perth Zoo partners with the Frankfurt Zoological Society, a group that has rescued more than 200 Sumatran orangutans from the illegal wildlife trade. The partnership focuses on rehabilitating these rescued primates for a return to their natural habitat.
"We have helped three orangutans be released back into the wild since 2006, which is an important part of our work," Ms Marina-Hart stated.
For locals looking for a unique Christmas Day outing, Perth Zoo will be open as usual. The zoo anticipates welcoming around 1500 visitors through its gates on December 25th, offering a chance to spend part of the holiday with these remarkable apes.
