Thanks to the cheetahs, I noticed that the Maned Wolves were out and about. They are so often sleeping in their houses that I don't usually even walk by their enclosure. But seeing that two cheetahs were lying right by the fence near the zebra, I knew they were watching something other than the zebra. I got a treat and found all three of the maned wolves out and running around their area. I even got to play peek-a-boo with one behind a big tree.

Rokan, the Sumatran tiger, had recently had some dental work and needed to be kept under observation as he had had some anesthetic for the procedure. This left his normal enclosure available for Luke. Luke was very active, following visitors in his enclosure as they walked along beside it. He was quite vocal and seems determined to learn to roar. He was probably confused about being in Rokan's space. Not only could he smell the presence of a different species, but in the regular Lion area, he's able to watch the keepers in their offices which look right out into the lion enclosure whereas he can't see them in the Tiger area.

I happened upon feeding time for Martina and Kiguru, (sp?) the two Caracals. It was bone day for them. They get a big bone once a week. Another day is bunny day, while on other days they get mice and other special treats. The keeper entices them into their indoor space and them closes them in there while the keeper then enters the outdoor enclosure placing food in different spots around the enclosure. The male has only been at National for about a year. He came to replace Bob, in hopes of having the two breed. Apparently Bob and Martina did not get along.

I also made a point to visit the Great Ape House to see Baraka, recently returned from four years in Omaha. It appears that his half-sister Kigali is very happy to see hi back in the group as she had been facing harassment by a couple of the young males in the group. Now she has a protector.