National Zoo 'enriches' its animals with musical instruments

National Zoo 'enriches' its animals with musical instruments

In an effort to keep its animals happy, the National Zoo has rolled out a "zoo enrichment" program in which animals can use art supplies and musical instruments. The animals don't really know what they're doing, but the results are adorable.

The enrichment activities are "designed to allow animals to demonstrate their species-typical behavior, to allow them exercise control or choice over their environment, and to enhance their well-being," the zoo explained in a statement. "While they wouldn't encounter a keyboard in the wild, the activity engages their sight, touch and hearing senses."

The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE
https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/flexiimages/jacafc5zvs1692883516.jpg

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Join more than 350,000 subscribers and keep yourself informed with a selection of The Week’s most interesting, enlightening and entertaining stories - plus daily puzzles.

Sign up
Latest Videos FromThe Week
Explore More

Meghan DeMaria is a staff writer at TheWeek.com. She has previously worked for USA Today and Marie Claire.