Ep 3. Orangagang
- March 6, 2022
In episode 3 of season 3 of Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa, titled Orangagang, viewers are taken behind the scenes of the zoo's primates' habitat. Specifically, the orangutan enclosure is a focus, as the keepers prepare the great apes for an annual exam.
As the episode begins, viewers are introduced to the orangutans in the enclosure, among them brothers Madju and DeeDee, who are known for their playful antics. We also meet adult female Josie, who has a complicated past. She was rescued from a private sanctuary, where her owners were not caring for her properly. Josie had been declawed, which meant that she was not able to climb properly. Her rescue and care has been ongoing, and she is a beloved member of the primate family at the zoo.
The annual exam for the orangutans is a necessary part of their health routine, but it is also a major event for the keepers. In preparation for the exam, the orangutans need to be trained to accept the procedures that will be performed on them. This includes a series of injections, blood draws, and ultrasounds, all of which are necessary to check on the health of the animals.
The training of the orangutans is done through positive reinforcement, with treats and praise used to encourage them to participate in the procedures. We see the keepers working closely with the orangutans to build trust and make the exam process as stress-free as possible.
Meanwhile, another primate in the zoo is also getting some attention. A white-faced saki monkey has been experiencing some health issues, and the team at the zoo is working to diagnose and treat the problem. The monkey, named Gisele, has been lethargic and not eating properly, which is a concern for the keepers.
The animal care team works to identify the problem through a series of tests and observations. They discover that Gisele has a wound on her leg, which is likely the cause of her discomfort. The team cleans and treats the wound, and Gisele starts to show signs of improvement.
Back with the orangutans, the exam day arrives. The team of keepers and vets work together to perform the necessary procedures on each of the orangutans. Madju and DeeDee are playful throughout, but Josie is a bit more apprehensive. However, with the help of the keepers, she is able to complete the procedure without incident.
The exam reveals that all of the orangutans are healthy, which is a relief for the keepers who love and care for these animals day in and day out.
As the episode comes to a close, we see the orangutans back in their enclosure, happy and healthy, and the keepers continuing to care for them with dedication and love. The episode ends on a high note, with viewers reminded of the important work that zoos do in caring for animals and promoting conservation efforts.
