Anteaters get into rubber!
While Kraiburg mats are normally used for horses and cows,
there is no reason why other species shouldn't appreciate the
benefits of a soft warm rubbery bed! Kraiburg was recently approached
by London Zoo, home to the only pair of Giant Anteaters in the
UK.
In August the female gave birth to twins. The successful rearing
of twins has occurred only once before world-wide, so it presented
quite a challenge. Through the winter months the twins started
to move away from their mother. |
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Anteaters do not like the cold so much of their time is spent in indoor
dens and outdoor shelters. The flooring in these areas was rough concrete.
'We were concerned that the babies softer skin might get abrasions
on this so started to look for an alternative floor covering,' commented
keeper Amanda Ferguson. 'The Kraiburg mats offered a robust yet gentle
surface. It is not slippy and is easy to sweep and hose down, drying
quickly. We chose the Kenmat so we had free drainage underneath. An
added advantage is the extra insulation gained. 'The adults spend much
time sleeping whilst the youngsters are exploring and playing. Having
a more 'giving' and warm substrate can only improve their health and
welfare. The anteaters have adapted well to this matting and the keepers
find it easy to manage, so we are very pleased with our choice'.
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