Kyiv Zoo staff provided watermelon slices to resident giant tortoises on Sunday at 12:00 [2] to mark the start of the watermelon season.
The event highlights the ongoing care and rehabilitation of animals rescued during the early stages of the conflict in Ukraine. By showcasing the health and appetite of these reptiles, the zoo provides a visible sign of stability and animal welfare within the city.
Among the tortoises enjoying the fruit were residents known as Дядя Саша, his fiancée Матильда, and Чебурек. The feeding session allowed the animals to sample the first berries of the year as part of their seasonal diet.
These tortoises are part of a larger group of several dozen [1] animals that the zoo houses. These specific reptiles were rescued from the Kyiv region in March 2022 [1] during the initial escalation of hostilities in the area.
The zoo's effort to maintain specialized diets for these rescued animals is part of a broader commitment to wildlife preservation. The giant tortoises, known for their longevity, require specific nutritional support that seasonal fruits like watermelon provide during the summer months.
Staff members organized the noon feeding to ensure the animals received fresh produce at the peak of the season. The event served as both a nutritional requirement and a way to showcase the rescued animals to the public through digital media.
“Kyiv Zoo opened its watermelon season, letting its rescued giant tortoises sample watermelon slices.”
The continued care of animals rescued during the 2022 invasion of the Kyiv region underscores the role of zoological institutions as sanctuaries during wartime. By maintaining these populations and their specific dietary needs, the zoo preserves biodiversity and provides a symbolic narrative of recovery and resilience for the local community.
