Meerkats at Edinburgh Zoo have been diving into their new toy – a large ball pool.
It was donated by players of People’s Postcode Lottery and keepers have filled the large, wooden pool with bright colourful balls for the little animals to play with.
They will also place grubs among the balls to encourage the meerkats’ natural foraging behaviour, as they leap excitedly between the balls to try find the food.
Alison Maclean, Carnivore and Giant Panda Team Leader, said: “We are grateful that as part of the ongoing support from players of People’s Postcode Lottery, we are able to provide our animals with exciting enrichment, such as this ball pool.
“Enrichment plays an important role in the lives of the animals at RZSS Edinburgh Zoo, providing extra stimulation which helps stimulate natural, species-typical behaviour. The meerkats will love jumping in and out of the ball pool and searching amongst the balls for tasty treats.”
VIDEO: Meerkats have a ball with new toy at Edinburgh Zoo