The cuteness compensates for tough job
The Secret Life of the Zoo Channel 4, 8pm
THE Easter holidays have been and gone, and doubtless those with youngsters will have just about exhausted their ideas for how to keep the little ones entertained. One timeless pastime that’s always hard to beat is a trip to the zoo – especially somewhere like Chester, where animal welfare is a primary concern. Indeed, such establishments offer rare insights into the behaviour and habitats of creatures from around the world, and provide glimpses of a natural world we might otherwise never experience – outside of a David Attenborough documentary.
There are lucky individuals, though, who can get even more up-close and personal with the animals – zookeepers, whose hard work and hands-on care ensure the success of these beloved attractions. Sure, it’s a tough job – and dirtier than most (fancy cleaning out the elephant paddock, anyone?) – but it also allows for unparalleled access to some of the world’s most endangered, and adorable, creatures. That’s why this series, following the behind-the-scenes efforts of staff at Chester Zoo, is so popular.
Now in its fifth run, we catch up with the workers and animals at a time when much is set to change.
For starters, the meerkats get some new members, as breeding pair Beagle and Husky arrive at the zoo. However, the move doesn’t go smoothly, as the happy couple’s new neighbours – the aardvarks – seem to be making them nervous. The team decide that the enclosure needs redesigning to afford the pair a bit of privacy.
Meanwhile, the Sumatran orangutans should also be set for some new faces, with sisters Emma and Subis due to give birth. However, Subis’ labour doesn’t go according to plan, and after 24 hours with no further progress, she’s rushed in for emergency treatment. As the vets are ascertaining the best course of treatment – with a caesarean section becoming ever more likely – they receive a shock that changes everything...
Elsewhere keepers hope Janet and John, their vampire crabs (cuter than the name suggests), might finally mate, but the pair seem shy. They think the introduction of a new, larger male, Claude, will change the dynamic and help Janet come out of her shell - however there’s always the risk he will simply face off against John leading to fights, lost limbs and heartache for all concerned.
Over in the reptile house, Ruby the two-horned chameleon arrives, having been seized by Customs officials after she was illegally transported by exotic pet traffickers. This is a boon for the zoo, as the species is in decline, and the staff want to breed her to help their conservation efforts. However, chameleons are notoriously picky when it comes to their mates. She has males Eddie and Charles to choose from. Will either suit?
Think of it like a reptilian First Dates – this is Channel 4, after all...