The Paris Olympics have recently ended, but for a group of lively and energetic tortoises at Australia's Werribee Open Range Zoo, the Olympics are just beginning.
Five leopard tortoises embody the athleticism and competitive spirit of Olympic and Paralympic champions, inspired by the new hanging feeders in their revamped habitat.
As the reptiles move around the field to feed, they recreate the aquatic skills of gold medalists in swimming Alexa Leart and Ariarne Titmus, the athleticism of James Turner and the strength of Japanese wrestler Rei Higuchi.
Werribee Open Range Zoo manager Malinda Delahant said the turtles have responded incredibly positively to the renewal of their habitat and are taking part in a range of activities.
"The turtles are definitely acting like they're at the Olympics this year," Delahant said.
"The environment we have created for them is extremely dynamic. You can see them swimming, rising very high, jockeying for position to access their food, and surprisingly they can also pick up some speed," she added.
The new habitat is not only functional but also aimed at enhancing the natural opportunities similar to the wild environment of the leopard tortoises. A feeder frame that resembles a tree can be used to hang leafy branches that turtles can reach by stretching. The model stones and logs, which resemble natural elements of the African savannah, have small nooks in which branches or food can be placed.
Delahunt pointed out that the "turtle Olympics" are beneficial for the physical and mental stimulation of the adorable reptiles.
"Just like us, movement and exercise are very important to their fitness. So when we see turtles being able to stretch, climb, swim, help each other to access their food, it's really great exercise and improves their health," she explained.
Leopard tortoises are endemic to the savannas of eastern and southern Africa and thrive in semi-arid and grassy habitats. Populations in the wild are currently stable, but habitat destruction due to agricultural pressure is considered a threat to their spread.
Werribee Open Range Zoo is home to five male leopard tortoises and three Bell's hinge-back tortoises, which visitors can see walking outside on warm sunny days. | BGNES
