Ep 4. King of the Jungle

Secrets of the Zoo is a thrilling documentary series that takes viewers on a behind-the-scenes adventure into the fascinating world of animal care at one of America's largest and most popular zoos, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium in Ohio. In this episode, entitled "King of the Jungle," we follow the zookeepers as they tend to some of the more exotic and majestic animals in their care.

At the start of the episode, we meet a new resident of the zoo - a gorgeous adult male lion named Tomo. Tomo joins a small pride of females in a brand-new enclosure, specially designed to provide maximum comfort and safety for the animals. We learn that lions are social animals who require a lot of space to roam, so the zookeepers have worked hard to create a habitat that meets their needs. However, despite the lions' impressive size and strength, they are susceptible to a host of medical issues, including dental problems and skin conditions. One of the zoo's veterinarians explains some of the measures they take to keep the lions healthy, including regular tooth-brushing and regular vaccinations.

The episode also follows the zookeepers as they care for a young giant anteater named Mochaka. Mochaka is a playful and curious animal who loves to climb and explore his surroundings. However, he is also prone to digestive issues, which can be dangerous for an animal of his size. We see the keepers preparing his meals, which consist of a special high-fiber diet, and administering medication to help regulate his digestive system. We also get a glimpse of some of the other animals who share Mochaka's enclosure, including capybaras and tapirs.

Another highlight of the episode is the story of a pair of silverback gorillas named J.J. and Mac. J.J. is the dominant male of the group, and we see him flexing his muscles and asserting his authority over the other members of his troop. Mac, on the other hand, is a younger male who is still learning the ropes of gorilla social dynamics. We witness some fascinating displays of behavior, including chest-beating and vocalizations, that help the gorillas communicate with each other and establish their roles within the troop. The keepers also discuss the challenges of caring for such intelligent and social creatures, who require a lot of mental stimulation and interaction with humans to thrive in captivity.

Other animals featured in the episode include a feisty armadillo, a group of exotic birds, and a trio of playful meerkats. Each segment highlights the unique needs and personalities of these fascinating creatures, and the huge amount of care and attention it takes to keep them healthy and happy in captivity.

Overall, "King of the Jungle" is a gripping and informative episode of Secrets of the Zoo that offers a glimpse into the daily lives of some of the world's most remarkable animals. The show provides a fantastic platform for raising awareness of the challenges facing zoos in the 21st century, and the vital role they play in conservation and education. Whether you're an animal lover or simply fascinated by the natural world, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire.