Monkey Business
10 February 2012

Six Vervet Monkeys underwent bi-annual examinations at Werribee Open Range Zoo this week.

Thelma, Tumbili, Coen, Sandy, Kafue and Tribitarka were given a thorough check by a skilled team of vets, vet nurses and keepers.

The monkeys were anaesthetised and given a physical exam, a dental check up, vaccines and worm treatment. They also had skin testing and blood samples taken. 

All six (4 females and 2 females) were given a clean bill of health and have swung back into action.

The remaining 12 Vervet Monkeys will undergo their vet checks shortly.

Two African Grey Parrots at the zoo also received their annual examinations last week. Panzi and Moya had physical exams, whole body x-rays and blood samples.

This parrot species is known for its intelligence and ability to accrue a large vocabulary. They have a very strong beak for shredding and cracking food and weigh between 500-550 grams.

Both parrots received good test results, recovered well from their procedures and are in fine fettle.

Also, Scoot, an Eastern Long Necked tortoise, received veterinary care last week. She had sustained a shell injury near the base of her tail, suspected from a fall on her pool ramp.

The damaged area was repaired, bandaged and Scoot is receiving antiobiotics.