Ok, so cheetahs don’t actually eat pumpkins. (They are strict carnivores.) But the zookeepers at Busch Gardens provided some pumpkins for the cheetahs to investigate for some Halloween-themed fun. New sights and smells provide enrichment to animals, keeping them engaged and stimulated.
Remember the cheetah cub Kasi and his puppy friend Mtani? Here they are together all grown up!
Kasi joins Mtani to look at pumpkins.
Kasi and Mtani sniff the pumpkins.
More cheetahs examining the pumpkins.
Animal Fact Guide is giving away THREE Halloween costumes courtesy of HalloweenCostumes.com. For a chance to win, simply comment below with your favorite animal fact by September 23. Be sure to include your email address so we may contact the winners for their mailing address and choice of costume.
Three lucky winners will have their choice of any costume available on HalloweenCostumes.com valued up to $50.
Note: This contest is open to people in the U.S. only.
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UPDATE: Congratulations to our winners, Amanda A., Rita M., and Nicole F.!
At Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, the animals from the Edge of Africa enjoyed special Jack-O’-Lanterns in the festive spirit of Halloween. Inside each carved pumpkin was a unique treat depending on the animal’s diet. Lions and hyenas were tempted by meat. Ring-tailed lemurs sought grapes, while meerkats were after mealworms. Hippos love fruit, but Kita enjoyed playing with the buoyant pumpkin for a few minutes before smashing it and eating it.
Watch the fun video below: