In this blog, I’d like to use a case study to help explain reinforcement training, the use of positive and negative reinforcement, what it means and show that “negative” doesn’t mean bad! Negative reinforcement is incredibly useful in training and is used to increase desirable behaviours in a very effective and efficient way. Use of…
This episode of the turtle files has us investigating one of smaller species of turtle that lives in the Reptile House, the yellow-margined box turtle (Cuora flavomarginata). These turtles are classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss from agricultural expansions, the illegal pet trade and hunting for traditional medicines. They…
Did you know that 2nd July is porcupine appreciation day. What a perfect opportunity to talk about one of the most misunderstood creatures here at Wingham, the African crested porcupine. If you aren’t already in love, hopefully you will be by the end of this blog. Say Hello to Our Trio Here at the park,…
As zookeepers, we shouldn’t have favourites, but sometimes we can’t help it! So, when I asked the team if they had a favourite, some struggled and some knew their answers straight away! So for today’s blog, I thought I would introduce you to some of the more unique favourite animals on the section! Savannah chose…
I went to Kearnsey Abbey Gardens the other day with my wife. It was a day filled to the brim with baby birds. Cygnets (baby swans), ducklings, blue tit fledglings, coot chicks and even during our prior visit to Faversham in the morning we saw a baby oystercatcher on the brewery roof. As a result…
Hello everybody I’m Alex, the new Head of Carnivores and I am sure you are curious about the arrival of our new Asiatic lions Theo, Thor and Rakesh. They joined us on 1st May and are slowly settling in well to their new environment and keepers. Don’t worry boys, as were both newbies here we…
For this week’s reptile and invert blog, I thought I would rate a selection of our animals on how helpful they are when it comes to us cleaning and working on enclosures. And we are just going to get stuck straight in. Isopods Our isopods (woodlice) are the ultimate cleaners. They eat everything that you…
World Binturong Day takes place this Saturday, its celebrated every year on the second Saturday of May to raise awareness about the conservation of the Binturong. Also known as Bearcats; they play an important role because their key ecological position in Asian rainforests and help maintain healthy forest ecosystems. Seed dispersers for rainforest trees; Binturongs…
In this blog, I will give an update on the wonderful Duke and Tora, who remain in the new big cat building out of visitor view for the time being. I will tell you a bit about their personalities, husbandry and what they’ve been up to recently. Their New Home Duke and Tora, our pair…
Here at Wingham Wildlife Park, we’re very lucky to be home to some of the most incredible species you ever laid eyes on! On the Mammal Section especially, we work with a wide diversity of animals, from the taller giraffes to the smaller naked mole rats. As keepers, we often get asked questions about our wonderful…
