Pattaya-
On April 29, 2025, Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi, Thailand, launched special activities to help animals beat the intense summer heat. The zoo provided fruit-based ice treats packed in bamboo tubes to binturongs and gibbons, offering a refreshing treat. Additionally, the zoo introduced activities to stimulate natural foraging behaviors, such as providing logs filled with live termites for giant anteaters to lick and dig into.
Narongwit Chodchoi, the zoo’s director, explained that these Animal Enrichment activities are held regularly to promote natural behaviors, enhance animal well-being, improve mental health, and reduce stress during hot weather. The fruit ice treats not only delight the animals with their taste and coolness but also encourage physical activity and muscle exercise for species like binturongs, bears, and gibbons.
For giant anteaters, logs with live termites were introduced to hone their licking and digging skills, closely mimicking their natural foraging habits.
The zoo also organized special activities for Asian elephants, including spraying fruit scents on banana trees to stimulate their sense of smell and encourage playful behavior. Banana trees were also used as new toys for elephants resting in their sheds, helping them relax and reduce stress effectively.
Khao Kheow Open Zoo remains committed to developing initiatives that enhance animal welfare, ensuring the best care for its wildlife based on international animal welfare standards.
