New additions to zoo

GOOD MEDICINE: LAUGHING HYENA CUBS SETTLE IN AT EMERALD RESORT

There are also hippos, iguanas, lions, snakes, monkeys and antelope.

Ever heard characteristic cackling cries in the South African bushveld? That’s the sound of the spotted hyena, also known as the laughing hyena, which can sometimes be heard as far away as 5km, and it could soon be heard at Emerald Resort & Casino’s Animal World.

“We’re pleased to announce that Animal World zoo has taken in two spotted hyena cubs,” says Emerald Resort & Casino’s marketing executive Tanuja Gangabishun.

“They are doing really well and are adapting to their new environment,” confirms zoo manager Elana Smalberger.

“The cubs arrived at the beginning of June, but we have only recently moved them into their new environment.”

They are only six months old and an adult spotted hyena can grow to almost 2m long, with a dark, bushy tail measuring 25 to 30cm.

One of the characteristic predators of the African savannah, females are heavier than males and can weigh up to 82kg.

Within clans, a social hierarchy exists and the female ranks higher than the male.

Their so-called laughter is commonly a series of whoops, grunts, yells, growls, giggles and cackles and is used as a form of communication.

“These incredible and highly intelligent creatures can be seen (and sometimes heard) at Animal World, next to the Monkey Island,” says Gangabishun.

“Animal World is open every day from 9am to 4.15pm.

“Besides the hyenas, be on the lookout for hippos and flamingos, iguanas and antelope, monkeys, lions, snakes and so much more.”

For up-to-date information, visit emeraldcasino.co.za. – Citizen reporter