Al Ain: Visitors will be able to see previously unseen natural behaviour of monkeys and a Nile crocodile put together in a single enclosure at Al Ain Zoo.
The fascinating enclosure of Vervet monkeys, terrapins (a turtle) and a Nile crocodile is undoubtedly a unique attraction for visitors, and in fact houses species which occur in the same habitat in the wild — a tactic that Al Ain Zoo strives to implement as enrichment for their animals, said an official of the zoo.
It is an exciting mix of species that is as close to nature as it gets," said Dr Arshad Toosy, Acting Chief Life Sciences and Conservation of Al Ain Zoo.
"It is not acceptable to house animals in sterile, isolated environments. Keeping animals in a mixed species enclosure provides them with behavioural enrichment and also enhances the visitor's experience," he said.
The exhibit, he said, has been structured in such a way that monkeys can easily distance themselves from the crocodile as needed. "We are closely monitoring the behaviour of the monkeys, terrapins and crocodile and are confident the crocodile poses no threat to the other animals in the enclosure," he added.
Nile crocodile has a docile behaviour and was moved from the indoor pool it shared with terrapins in the Reptile House to an outdoor pool within the Vervet monkey exhibit.
Winter months
The crocodile was recently observed basking in the sun while lying at the edge of the pool which cools in winter months. As for the monkeys, they have adapted themselves well to the presence of the crocodile and are often seen by the zookeepers teasing the crocodile for enjoyment.
The official said Vervet monkeys use different sounds to warn of different types of predators. It has distinct calls to warn of the sighting of a leopard, a snake, or an eagle. They are also known to be excellent swimmers, in addition to their speedy skills of running and climbing trees. The Vervet monkey is an arboreal monkey which means that it spends most of its time on trees.
Nile crocodiles have brains and hearts that are more advanced than those of any other living reptiles. In contrast to lizards, they have a high walk. They swim with their tails, but their hind feet are webbed and can be used to submerge quickly. They are known for producing at least six different vocal signals.
