January 3rd 2025.
The holiday season may be over, but the festive spirit is still alive at the Berlin Zoo. In a heartwarming tradition, the zoo has given some of its residents, including the majestic elephants, their very own Christmas presents. On Friday, the animals were treated to trees that were not able to find a home during the holidays. This has become an annual event that brings joy not only to the animals but also to the visitors who get to witness the heartwarming scenes.
As the elephants eagerly tore off branches with their trunks, it was clear that they were delighted with their special treats. Some of them threw the branches around their enclosure, while others happily munched on the greenery. According to Florian Sicks, the zoo's curator for mammals, these trees not only provide food for the animals but also serve as a source of entertainment. They can play and interact with the branches, keeping them occupied and enriching their daily lives.
To ensure the safety of the animals, the zoo only accepts fresh, unsold trees from select vendors. They do not take trees from the public, as they may contain harmful chemicals or leftover decorations. This attention to detail shows the zoo's commitment to the well-being of its beloved residents. As Sicks puts it, "We want to make sure that our animals have the best possible quality of life."
While the elephants may be the stars of the show, other animals also got to join in on the fun. For the first time, the giraffes received their own special gifts in the form of belated stocking-fillers. These were suspended upside down at the perfect height for the giraffes to enjoy. Max, one of the giraffes, wasted no time in getting a taste of the greenery. However, his companion Mugambi seemed a bit hesitant and took some time inspecting the gift before trying it out.
The zoo's Christmas present tradition not only brings joy to the animals but also serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and animal welfare. It is heartwarming to see the animals so happy and content, thanks to the thoughtful and caring staff at the Berlin Zoo. And with the 9NEWS app, you can stay updated on all the latest news, including heartwarming stories like this one, straight from your smartphone. Available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play, it's the perfect way to stay connected and informed.
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