BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Much like humans, when zoo animals reach their twilight years, they often need specialized diets, tailored medications and accessibility adjustments to their homes.
When Brevard Zoo animals reach their “geriatric” years, or about 80% of their expected lifespan, animal care teams said they work to create “retirement homes” geared toward the aging animals’ needs.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
“Taking care of animals is a lifelong commitment, no matter the species,” zoo officials said in a recent blog post. “Here at the Zoo, we strive to provide the best possible care for the entirety of all our animals’ lives, including those who have surpassed their median life expectancies.”
Here’s what a few of those homes look like:
Photos: See inside ‘retirement homes’ set up for older animals at Brevard Zoo
0 of 4
Flounder’s condo
At 29 years old, Flounder the small flying fox has far exceeded her species’ median life expectancy.
Due to her advanced age and nocturnal nature, zoo officials said Flounder lives in a behind-the-scenes area of the zoo. Her habitat is equipped with climbing structures to encourage her to be active, stuffed animals to keep her cozy, hideouts to give her options and a night house for daytime naps.
READ: Good luck, Hiccup: Green sea turtle recovers from twitch, returns to the ocean
We are committed to providing lifelong care for Zoo animals, so much so that we’ve created custom “retirement homes” for some of our geriatric residents! Read more here: https://t.co/LitYVDsRqR pic.twitter.com/TzOPoJKSiD
— Brevard Zoo (@BrevardZoo) April 21, 2022
Josie’s lazy river
Josie, a 28-year-old Baird’s tapir, has lived at the Brevard Zoo since 1994. Zoo officials said she lives in the deer yard and has access to the open water located just across from the bald eagle habitat.
While her species isn’t found in Florida nowadays, officials said this spot is perfect for an older Baird’s tapir. She has access to many different areas, lots of water for swimming and opportunities to socialize with the area’s other residents if she so desires.
READ: Brevard Zoo closes bird experiences to the public due to Avian flu risk
Island life for Kamots and Matilda
Two ring-tailed lemurs, 28-year-old male Kamots and 15-year-old female Matilda, are living out their elder years on island time.
The pair live on a small island off the zoo’s Africa platform extension. Zoo officials said the island has been adapted to suit their needs with lower-hanging vines and lowered night houses that they can easily access.
WATCH: Brevard Zoo collecting donations to establish dedicated manatee rescue team
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
©2022 Cox Media Group
