No shortage of fodder at the National Zoological Garden

The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), the organisation responsible for running the Pretoria Zoo (National Zoological Garden) is aware of a message circulating on social media requesting urgent assistance from communities to provide fodder to feed the buffalo and giraffes. 

A resident of Tshwane who has donated branches in the past, posted a message on community group that she was preparing to donate to the NZG, and asked if anyone wished to contribute as well. This has escalated into an urgent call, which has caused unnecessary concern. 

There is no need for members of the public to bring branches (browse) to the Pretoria Zoo, as there is sufficient food for the animals. On occasion when residents are pruning trees, they have offered to donate their branches to the Zoo on a charitable basis. Staff at the NZG also collect browse for a variety of species to supplement the dietary requirements for the herbivores.

The browse is also used as a treat, and enrichment for a variety of species, for example our parrots. Thicker branches are used as perches for the birds and enclosure furniture for the small primates and carnivores. 

Members of the public who wish to contribute to the NZG can participate in the Adopt-an-Animal programme. For a small adoption fee, the public can help the NZG to do big things for both the animals and the zoo. All the animals on display at the NZG are available for adoption. Heloise Stanworth has been running the ‘Adopt an Animal Programme’ for a number of years and is pleased to report that adoption numbers are increasing steadily. She is happy to help interested members of the public make the perfect choice from the many colourful animals found at the NZG. Contact Heloise at 012 339 2700.