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Leipzig Zoo welcomes the return of its Okapi female, Zawadi, after several weeks of absence. While the okapi is adapting to her new surroundings once more, there's one aspect that's proving challenging for her - stepping onto the scale.
Zawadi's Homecoming Challenges - A Matter of Scale
Two weeks into her return, Zawadi appears comfortable within her familiar routines at Leipzig Zoo. "She recognizes the routines," reported Tana Schleinschock, the zookeeper responsible for her care. However, one thing continues to elude Zawadi: acquiring her weight data. During her time in Poland, there was no scale available for periodic weight checks.
A Delicate Balancing Act - Tana's Tactics
Watchful eyes on Zawadi, Tana observed the okapi's initial reluctance to engage with the scale. A potential solution came when a delivery of green feed arrived. Despite her preference for pasture, Tana felt optimistic that the green feed might help coax Zawadi closer to the scale.
Slowly but surely, Tana approached Zawadi, offering the green feed as a lure. "Come here, my dear," Tana comforted Zawadi, allowing her to approach the scale at her own pace. Eventually, Zawadi managed to muster the courage to cross the last few meters and weigh in at 264 kilograms. "She's in good health," Tana confirmed.
A Daily Gain - Zawadi's Sustained Growth
In the two weeks since Zawadi's return, she's steadily added nearly a kilogram each day. "Thanks to Tana's diligent care," the announcer added. As a reward after her weigh-in, Zawadi was treated to a special favorite - a salt lick stone. "It's her go-to mineral in the stall," Tana shared. "She tends to consume it voraciously, and we let her enjoy it during her weigh-ins as one of her quirks."
To delve deeper into the life and care of the elephants, tigers, and other creatures at Leipzig Zoo, tune into "Elefant, Tiger & Co." (1128) in the ARD media library.
Lifestyle changes in Zawadi's home-and-garden have been noticed as she adapts to her return to Leipzig Zoo, with special attention given to her interaction with a new food item, the green feed. Despite initially being hesitant about the scale, pets like Zawadi have unique quirks, such as her voracious consumption of salt lick stones during weigh-ins.
