Orangutan Experience
This is a photo I took at Busch Gardens during the Tiger and Orangutan Keeper Experience;
Experience what it is like to be a Busch Gardens zookeeper caring for Jungala’s Bengal tigers and Bornean orangutans.
You’ll go behind the scenes to see where the animals sleep, have the unique opportunity to help the zoo staff prepare the animals food and perform routine health exams. Your group will also take part in an orangutan training session, and then test your strength against a tiger.
We got to go behind the scenes and meet Lunabella, an orangutan who was having a training session. The trainers explained how each of the ‘tricks’ they teach the orangutans actually has a purpose, they can get the orangutans to open their mouths, lift their arms etc.. this allows the staff to administer medical treatment without having to put them to sleep. Lunabella also had some ‘play’ time and likes playing the harmonica and painting. She was very mischevious, at one point sneaking off to fill her mouth with water to squirt over us!
Definitely my favourite animal experience during our trip to Florida.
Blimey. He’s a bit up close and personal! Great shot.
Looks and sounds like you all had a fab time
I can see the mischief in her eyes!! Great shot:) Jen.
She was definitely trying to be centre of attention.
This was the bit I would have loved best.
It’s like looking in a mirror.
Such a great pic, her eyes are looking straight into the camera!
Was amazing Linda, my favourite thing, even better than the dolphin swim.
Mummy V – She was a real poser!
Wow, you did get up close and personal. Great photo!
*shudder*