By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
As a new playground set at the Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo is
constructed, the old playground was ripped out. The equipment installed in the late
2000s was not completely destroyed. Several pieces, including slides and
swings, were given to the animals as enrichment pieces.
Zoo Curator Ashley Burdick said enrichment entertainment pieces are just as
important to the animals as veterinary care and nutrition.
"It depends on the animal as far as how often they get enrichment," said Burdick. "Every animal gets it at least once a week. The primates, the lemurs and the gibbons, they get it every day. If we notice an animal is pacing, we'll evaluate if they need more enrichment."
The zoo posted videos this week of the lemurs interacting with a recycled
playground swing. Burdick said there are roughly 10 pieces of the old
playground staff will distribute to different animals.
"Sometimes we'll be at a garage sale, see a kid's toy, and think that would be cool for the animals," said Burdick. "There are also forums and things online, where zookeepers share their ideas. We collaborate ideas. You can get creative with it."
The new playground is expected to be installed within the next couple of
months.