Nutrition

A good diet is essential for good health and well-being.

Providing the optimal diet and nutrition for zoo animals is vital. Of course, it may not be feasible to replicate a wild diet, and indeed many aspects of wild diet may not be known for many species. Instead, diet is considered at the nutrient level. The aim is to provide the essential nutrients for health, function and well being.
There is increasing recognition about the role of nutrition in the care of animals in captivity, and that specialist research and knowledge is required.
Nutrition is made up of a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, fat and fibre as well as vitamins and minerals, and amino acids, fatty acids and trace minerals. There are clear links between the quality of nutrition and rates of growth, digestion and reproduction and the occurrence of disease.

Nutrition and Zoo animals

A Painted Dog's Dinner