Monkeys, crocodile share enclosure at zoo

Al Ain Zoo’s newest exhibit in 2012 showcases a mix of species that is as close to nature as it gets, where Vervet monkeys and a Nile crocodile now share a home so visitors can see previously unseen natural behaviour. The fascinating enclosure of Vervet monkeys, terrapins and a Nile crocodile is 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. Dr Arshad Toosy, acting chief, Life Sciences and Conservation of Al Ain Zoo, commented: “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 has been structured in such a way that the Vervet 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. Having acknowledged the docile behaviour of one of its Nile crocodiles, Al Ain Zoo has moved the animal from the indoor pool it shared with terrapins in the Reptile House to an outdoor pool within the Vervet monkey exhibit. Recently, this Nile crocodile was 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. Vervet monkeys use different sounds to warn of different types of predators.  They have 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 in running and climbing 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. From gulftoday