London Zoo animals take to scales for annual weigh-in

August 19, 2024

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The weigh-in sees the zoo’s animals get their annual health check while gathering important data

PA Media Penguin standing on a scale as a keeper kneels next to it with a clipboard to record its details at annual weigh-in. — The weigh-in sees the zoo’s animals get their annual health check while gathering important data

Animals at London Zoo are being checked and measured as part of its annual weigh-in day.

The zoo staff will need to gently tempt every mammal, bird, reptile, fish and invertebrate, from Humboldt penguins to camels and lion cubs, by strategically placing food next to the scales to check their health and wellbeing.

Data is then added to the Zoological Information Management System.

It is shared with zoos around the world and helps zookeepers compare information on threatened species.

Angela Ryan, head of zoological operations at London Zoo, said the weigh-in, which began on Monday and can take up to a week, will form an important part of gathering data to help protect animals in the wild.

Although the zoo houses more than 14,000 animals, Ms Ryan said the keepers will only have time to measure and log the weight of around 400 creatures.