A REPORT ON A VISIT TO THE UNILORIN ZOOLOGICAL GARDEN

BY

IBRAHIM, luth omoshola.

15/10AS064

FOR THE COURSE:

WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AND UTILISATION

FRM 522

SUBMITTED TO:

THE UNIVERISTY OF ILORIN, FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE

DEPARTMENT OF FOREST RESOURCES MANAGEMENT

LECTURER: Dr. F.D. Babalola

March, 2021
 ABSTRACT

The visit to the University of Ilorin Zoological Garden, which is a required as a field activity for
the course “Wildlife management and utilization” (FRM 522), was embarked upon, on the 17 thof
March, 2021. Student’s participation and adhesion to zoological rules and regulations was highly
condoned. Instructions and guidelines were passed across to the students by the lecturer in
charge; Dr. F.D. Babalola, who as his usual conducts, arrived early at the zoological garden to
give the students entrance into the zoo. 91 students were reported to have participated in the zoo
visit, while about 104 students paid a token of ₦100 as a requirement to visit the zoo. This was
minimal compared to the required entrance fee of ₦500, collected from visitors in general. Mr
Taiwo Bamidele led the class, while identifying the animals and explaining behaviours and
related features. All animals within the zoo were observed and briefly discussed with the orator.
It was found that Uniolrin zoological garden comprises of such animals in the class mammals,
aves and reptiles. No animal was encountered in the class pisces and amphibians. About 5
animals were juddge to be of higher risk according to the IUCN standard. 3 of the animals
encountered are Vulnerable which are, Panthera pardus, Panther leo and Balearica pavonina,
while 2 of the animals were endangered. These are, Pan troglodyte and Cephalophus
philantomba. This shows the importance of the existence of the zoological garden in supporting
the conservation of wildlife biodiversity. However, problems identified as a threat to the optimal
productivity of the zoo were insufficient funds, bureaucracy and erratic power supply. In
rounding up the zoo visit, appreciation was rendered by the student representatives in person of
Omolola Raji and Nasiru jamiu. The exercise was concluded with the writing of a report which
was submitted on the 31st of March, 2021.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE…………………………………………………………………………………...….i
ABSTRACT....................................................................................................................................ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS...............................................................................................................iii

LIST OF PLATE.............................................................................................................................v

CHAPTER ONE..............................................................................................................................1

1.0 INTRODUCTION.....................................................................................................................1

1.1 The Course Aim and Objectives................................................................................................1

1.1.1 Aim.........................................................................................................................................1

1.1.2 Objectives...............................................................................................................................1

1.2 Reasons for Establishing Zoological Gardens...........................................................................1

1.3 University of Ilorin Zoological Gardens....................................................................................2

CHAPTER TWO.............................................................................................................................3

2.0 REPORT ON ANIMALS IN THE ZOO...................................................................................3

2.1 Mammals...................................................................................................................................3

2.1.1 African Civet Cat....................................................................................................................3

2.1.2 Baboon....................................................................................................................................4

2.1.3 Leopard...................................................................................................................................4

2.1.4 Chimpanzee............................................................................................................................5

2.1.5 Crested Porcupine...................................................................................................................5

2.1.6 Duiker.....................................................................................................................................6

2.1.7 Green Monkey........................................................................................................................6

2.1.8 Stripped Hyena.......................................................................................................................7

2.1.9 Lion.........................................................................................................................................8

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2.1.10 Spotted hyena........................................................................................................................8

2.1.11 Tortoise.................................................................................................................................9

2.1.12 Warthog..............................................................................................................................10

2.2 AVES.......................................................................................................................................11

2.2.1 Black Crowned Crane...........................................................................................................11

2.2.2 Eagle.....................................................................................................................................11

2.2.3 Emu.......................................................................................................................................12

2.2.4 Fantail Pigeon.......................................................................................................................13

2.2.5 Marabou Stork......................................................................................................................13

2.2.6 Ostrich...................................................................................................................................13

2.2.7 Pea-fowl................................................................................................................................14

2.2.8 African Cukoo hawk.............................................................................................................14

2.2.9 Vulture..................................................................................................................................15

2.2.10 White Indian Peafowl.........................................................................................................15

2.3 REPTILES...............................................................................................................................17

2.3.1 African Rock Python............................................................................................................17

2.3.1 Nile-Crocodile......................................................................................................................17

2.3.2 Puff Adder............................................................................................................................18

2.3.3 Royal Python........................................................................................................................18

2.4 Picture Library of Selected Animals among the Observed Animals at the zoo……………...19
CHAPTER THREE.......................................................................................................................21

3.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION......................................................................21

3.1 Conclusion...............................................................................................................................21
3.2 Recommendation.....................................................................................................................21
References......................................................................................................................................21

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 LIST OF PLATE
Plate 1: Tortoise.............................................................................................................................19
Plate 2: A Bald Eagle.....................................................................................................................19
Plate 3: Crested Porcupine.............................................................................................................19
Plate 4: Ball Python.......................................................................................................................19
Plate 5: Ostrich..............................................................................................................................19
Plate 6: Baboon..............................................................................................................................19
Plate 7: Black crowned crane........................................................................................................19
Plate 9: Emu...................................................................................................................................19
Plate 8: White Indian Peafowl.......................................................................................................19
Plate 10: Nile Crocodile.................................................................................................................20
Plate 11: Wart Hog........................................................................................................................20
Plate 12: Leopard...........................................................................................................................20
Plate 13: CHimpanzee...................................................................................................................20
Plate 14:Peacock............................................................................................................................20
Plate 15: Vulture............................................................................................................................20

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vi
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 The Course Aim and Objectives

The course Wildlife management and utilization (FRM 522) is a 2 unit compulsory
course offered in the Department of Forest Resources Management at the final year level. It
involves indoor/classroom lectures, online classes and beneficial site seeing and zoo visit to
complement teaching. The aims and objectives of the course are as follows;

1.1.1 Aim
(i) To expose student to practical wildlife management practices and conservation of wild
animals.
(ii) To produce students who are well informed in wildlife/animal characteristics and
behaviours.
(iii) To create an environment where students can develop ideas on conservation that will
make them gainfully employed.
(iv) To develop and improve student skills in report writing and research documentation
(v) As a way of recreation, fun and entertainment, it brings students together, and also helps
in networking students with wild life managers and zoo keepers.

1.1.2 Objectives
At the end of this course, students are expected to be;

(i) Well informed about the relevance of captivity breeding and zoological gardens.
(ii) Well equipped with useful knowledge that increases their chances of being gainfully
employed.
(iii) able to associate animal behaviours with corresponding causes and effects.
(iv) Skilled in report writing and research documentation.

1.2 Reasons for Establishing Zoological Gardens

Wildlife management is a process that seeks to influence interactions among and between
wildlife, its habitats and people to achieve predefined goals. It includes conservation, game-

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keeping etc. The establishment of zoological gardens, which is a form of wildlife management
practices, is import for the following reason;

(i) To collect scientific data of wildlife to inform future wildlife management. It therefore,
promotes the diffusion of useful knowledge.
(ii) To see to the welfare of wildlife species and to conserve species of animals that is at risk
of extinction.
(iii) For ecotourism, site seeing and recreation.
(iv) For educational and research purposes.
(v) To create jobs and gainful employments

1.3 University of Ilorin Zoological Gardens

The University of Ilorin zoological garden is located at the university’s main campus in
Ilorin South LGA of Kwara State. Ilorin lies between 8°30ʹN and 4°33ʹE, within a region
described as tropical climate and are characterized by double rainfall maxima and has tropical
wet and dry climate. It has an annual rainfall range of 1000 mm to 1500 mm and a temperature
range of C and C during the wet season and a temperature range of C and C. Relative humidity at
Ilorin in the wet season is between 75 to 80% while in the dry season it is about 65%
(Olanrewaju, 2009).

According to word of mouth, the zoological garden was established in 1978 as the then
Biological garden, resident within the mini campus. This was done for teaching and research
purposes. It was opened to public view in 1982. However, Adefalu et al. (2015) reported that the
zoo was established in 1985. The zoo which is located at the main gate of the University on
latitude 8° 28’ 51’’ and longitude 4° 38’ 17’’ and has a children playground and picnic grounds.
A major attraction to the zoo is the 150meters long and 45 meters high suspended canopy
walkway which has continued to draw visitors to the zoo. The fact that most of the forest
vegetation has been left undisturbed and the presence of a stream which flows through the zoo
creates a serene and near natural environment which makes the zoo unique (Adefalu et al.,
2015). The zoo has been reported to draw over 55,000 visitors in a year comprising of schools,
religious bodies, clubs and societies on excursion and picnics as well as individuals and families
on sightseeing. However, such challenges as insufficient capital to maintain the zoo and the
bureaucracy in getting required management and zoological facilities are known to inhibit
optimal productivity of the zoo. Averagely, about ₦ 800,000 is spent monthly on feeding the
animals. More so, such facilities as incubators need constant power supply for optimal
performance.

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 CHAPTER TWO

2.0 REPORT ON ANIMALS IN THE ZOO

2.1 Mammals
2.1.1 African Civet Cat
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Civettictis civetta ((Schreber, 1776)

Ordinary name: African Civet cat

IUCN Status: Least concern (LC)
Natural Habitat Widely distributed in woodlands, savannahs and secondary forests. It is
nocturnal, thus it spends the day sleeping in dense vegetation or tall
grasses near water sources, but wakes up at sunset.
Unique Features It is a solitary mammal with a unique coloration. The black and white
blotches covering its coarse pelage and rings on the tail are said to be an
effective cryptic pattern. It detects prey by smell and sound.
Feeding Habit and It is omnivorous, in the zoo, it is fed with rice and beans, vegetables,
Courtship Behaviours invertebrates etc
They use their perineal gland secretion to mark their territories around
their civetries.
If it feels threatened, it raises its dorsal crest to make it look larger, and
thus more formidable and dangerous to attack.
Reproduction and Captive females are polyestrous. Mating last 40 to 70 seconds. Females
lifespan give birth in the rainy season between January and February. It normally
gives births to one to four young. The average lifespan is 15 to 20 years.
Care in Captivity It has been hunted for its perineal gland secretion called civetone, which
is used as a basic ingredient for many perfumes.
Cage Features They are kept in small and enclosed cages.

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2.1.2 Baboon

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Papio hamadryas (Linnaeus, 1758)
IUCN Status: Least Concerned (LC)
Natural Habitat They are found in open savannas and woodlands across Africa. They
have diurnality, and are terrestrial but sleep in trees or high cliffs at
night away from predators.
Unique Features It exhibits sexual dimorphism in size, colour and/or canine teeth
development. They have heavy and powerful jaws, thick fur, short tails
and nerveless, hairless pads of skin on their protruding buttocks called
ischial callosities that provides for sitting comfort. Baboons are able to
acquire orthographic processing skills, which form part of the ability to
read.
Feeding Habit and They are omnivorous, and are fed with rice, beans, fruits etc.
Courtship Behaviours By vocal exchange, the dominance relation is established between
individuals, and each male can mate with any female, which also
depends on their social rank.
Reproduction and Gestation: 6 months
lifespan Offspring: one infant
Lifespan: Baboon in captivity lives up to 45 years, while in the wild, an
average of 20 to 30 years.
Care in Captivity Well fed with fruits, and other foods. Most monkeys menstruate.
Cage Features Enclosed iron bar cages.

2.1.3 Leopard
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Panthera pardus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Ordinary name: Leopard
IUCN Status: Vulnerable (VU)
Natural Habitat It occurs in a variety of habitats such as savannahs, arid mountains and
hilly deserts, including areas where grasslands and riverine forests
remain largely undisturbed. They are active maily from dusk to dawn
and rest for most of the day.
Unique Features Compared to other wild cats, the Leopard has relatively short legs and a
long body with a large skull. Its fur is marked with rosettes. It is similar
in appearance to the jaguar but has a smaller, lighter physique. Both
Leopards andJaguars that are melanistic are known as black panthers. It
can run at speeds of up to 58 kilometres per hour.
Feeding Habit and It is carnivorous and hunting is its major pre-occupation. They are fed
Courtship Behaviours with cows and goats in the zoo.The leopard is a solitary and territorial
animal. Adults associate only in the mating season.
Reproduction and Breeding occurs throughout the year.

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lifespan Gestation: 3-4 months (90-105 days)
Offspring: 2 to 4 cubs
Average Lifespan: 12 to 17 years
Care in Captivity
Cage feature Strong Iron bar cages, which are closed are required to prevent escape.

2.1.4 Chimpanzee
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Pan troglodytes (Bluemenbach, 1775)
Ordinary name: Chimpanzee.
Zoo Name: Male: Goddey . Female: Aduke
IUCN Status: Endangered (EN)
Natural Habitat It is native to the forest and savannah of tropical Africa. Lives in
savanna, evergreen rainforest, montane forest, swamp forest and dry
woodland-savannah mosaic
Unique features It is covered in coarse black hair, but has a bare face, fingers, toes,
palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Its DNA is very similar to that
of humans.
Feeding Habit and It is and Omnivores frugivore, which prefers fruits above all other food
Courtship Behaviours items. Females consume much less animal flesh than males.
The species lives in a strict male-dominated hierarchy, where disputes
are generally settled without the need for violence. Chimps are
promiscuous, during oestrus, the female mate with several males in their
community.
Reproduction and Gestation period: 8 months
lifespan Lifespan: in the wild an average of 15 years. In captivity, males live a
median age of 31.7 years, and females 38.7 years.
Care for the young ones is mostly by the mothers.
Cage feature Strong and closed iron bar cages to prevent escape.
Care in Captivity They could weigh up to 136 kg in captivity, which is more than twice its
weight in the wild (27-50 kg). They should be well fed, and monitored
for emotional reactions.

2.1.5 Crested Porcupine

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Hystrix cristata (Linnaeus, 1758)
Ordinary name: Crested porcupine
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat They are terrestrial mammal, but can swim. They are nocturnal.
Unique features It is one of the largest rodents in the world. Almost the entire body is
covered with bristles which are either dark brown or black and rather
coarse. It has quills that run along the head, nape and back that can be

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 raised into a crest.
Feeding Habit and Majorly herbivorous, eating roots, bulbs and leaves. Occasionally eats
Courtship Behaviours insects. Fed with rice, beans and yam at the zoo.
They are monogamous.
Reproduction and Breeding occurs thoughout the year
lifespan Gestation: 2 months (66 days)
Offspring: 1 litter a year
Cage feature Iron-barred cages are required. They should be closed to prevent escape.
Also proper ventilation is necessary.
Care in Captivity Should be well fed, and kept in well ventilated cages.

2.1.6 Duiker
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Cephalophus philantomba (Gray, 1871)
Ordinary name: Duiker
IUCN status: Endangered (EN)
Natural Habitat Duikers are split into two groups based on their habitat; forest and bush
duikers. Duikers are very shy, elusive creatures with a fondness for
dense cover. Those that ten to live in more open areas are quick to
disappear into thickets for protection. They can be diurnal or nocturnal.
Unique features Duikers are hunted for their hide, meat and horns at highly unsustainable
rates. Females are distinctly larger than the males.
Feeding Habit and They are browsers rather than grazers. They eat leaves, shoots, seeds,
Courtship Behaviours fruit, buds and bark. Body size is proportional to the amount of food
intake and the size of the food.
Duikers behave in highly independent manner and prefer to act alone.
The secretions from the pre-orbital glands are used by males to mark
their territories.
Reproduction and Gestation period:
lifespan Offspring:
Lifespan:
Cage feature Large space for roaming about due to their restlessness. Iron cages and
tall fences to prevent escape. Shelter facilities are also required.
Care in Captivity Should be well fed, and given added vitamins and supplements.

2.1.7 Green Monkey

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Chlorocebus sabaeus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Ordinary: Green Monkey
IUCN status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat It can be found in a wide range of wooded habitats, ranging from very
dry Sahel woodland to the edge of rainforests. Commonly seen in

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 coastal regions.
Unique features It has golden-green fur and pale hands and feet. The tip of the tail is
golden yellow as are the backs of the tighs and cheek whiskers. It does
not have distinguishing band of fur on the brow, like other chlorocebus
species. Males have pale blue scrotum. It is sexually dimorphic, with
males typically being slightly larger than females. They communicate
verbally and non-verbally. It menstruates.
Feeding Habit and It is omnivorous. It feeds on a variety of foods such as crabs, fruits and
Courtship Behaviours invertebrates.
They are social animals, usually seen in groups of 7 to 80 individuals.
They have distinct social hierarchy evidenced by grooming behaviours
and gender relationships.
Reproduction and Viviparous animals. They are seasonal breeders, who live in a
lifespan polygynous society, revolving around the alpha males. The breed when
rainfall is highest.
Gestation period: 165 days (produces male offspring)
166 days (produces female offspring)
Offspring: 1 litter per year.
Lifespan: Average of 30.8 years in captivity
Cage feature Large space for roaming about. Fences should be tall and cages closed
to prevent escape. Trees could be planted within the cage.
Care in Captivity

2.1.8 Stripped Hyena

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Hyaena brunnea (Gray, 1821)
Ordinary name: Stripped hyena
IUCN status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat It lives in arid mountains regions, with scrub wood-land. It dens in rocky
hills, ravines and crevices.
Unique features They have relatively short torsos, fairly massive and wolf-like in build.
They have lower hind quarters, high withers and their backs slope
noticeably downwards towards their rumps. They do not wash their
faces. It is comparatively silent to the spotted hyena.
Feeding Habit and Carnivorous animals. They eat food quickly and may store it. However,
Courtship Behaviours they do not regurgitate their food for their young ones. Their calloused
feet with large, blunt non-retractable claws are adapted for running and
making sharp turns. Their dentition is well developed for crushing
bones.
Reproduction and Short copulations are observed. Young ones are born with adult
lifespan markings, closed eyes and small ears.
Gestation Period: 90-91 days
Offspring: 2 to 4 litter.
Lifespan: an average of 12 years in the wild, 25 years in captivity.

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Cage feature Large space for roaming about. Fences should be tall to prevent escape.
Care in Captivity They should be well fed, as they eat a lot (almost anything).

2.1.9 Lion
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Panthera leo ( Linnaeus, 1758)
Ordinary name : Lion
IUCN Status: Vulnerable (VU)
Natural Habitat The lion inhabits grasslands and savannas, but is absent in dense forests.
It is usually more diurnal than other big cats. It adapts to being active at
night and at twilight, when persecuted. Lions spend much of their time
resting and are inactive for about twenty hours per day.
Unique features The lion is an apex and keystone predator. It has muscular, deep-chested
body, short, rounded head, round ears and a hairy tuft at the end of its
tail. Adult males have a prominent mane and are larger than the females.
Feeding Habit and They are carnivorous animals. They spend about two hours a day
Courtship Behaviours walking and fifty minutes eating. In the zoo, lions are observed to sleep
for about three hours immediately after eating.
Reproduction and It is sexually dimorphic. It is a social species forming groups called
lifespan prides. Male groups are known as coalitions.
Gestation period: 3-4 months (110 days)
Offspring: 1 to 4cubs, which are born blind. Eyes opens after 7 days of
birth.
Lifespan: an average of 15 years in the wild, 30 years in captivity.
Cage feature Well barricaded cages to prevent escape. Open cages can be use since
Lions have poor climbing ability.
Care in Captivity It is well fed with cow, goat and other herbivores.

2.1.10 Spotted hyena

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Crocuta crocuta (Gray 1821)
Ordinary name: Spotted Hyena
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat
Unique features The forelegs are high, while the hind legs are very short and their necks
are thick and short. They have similar features with the Hyena in section
2.1.8. Their dentition is more specialized for consuming coarse food and
crushing bones.

8
Feeding Habit and Carnivorous animals. They are scavengers. They operate in teams in
Courtship Behaviours response to the increased pressure from rivals on carcasses. Their
sebaceous glands produce white, creamy secretion that the hyena paste
onto grass stalks. It smells like boiling or burning soap, and can be
detected by humans several metres away. They are used primarily for
marking territories
Reproduction and Mating involves a number of short copulations, with brief intervals. The
lifespan young ones are born almost fully developed with their eyes open and
erupting incisors and canines, though lacking adult markings.
Gestation period: 110 days.
Litter 2 babies.
Lifespan: up to 25 years in the wild and 40 years in captivity.
Cage feature Large space for roaming about. Fences should be tall to prevent escape.
Care in Captivity They should be well fed, proved with shade and enough space for
roaming about.

2.1.11 Tortoise
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Testudo graeca (Linnaeus 1758)
Ordinary: Aldabra giant Tortoise
IUCN Status: Critically endangered (CR) + Endangered (EN) +
Vulnerable (VU).
Natural Habitat They are exclusively land-dwelling. They are usually diurnal animals
with tendencies to be crepuscular depending on the ambient
temperatures. Most species occupy semi-arid habitats, but may also live
in deserts, arid grasslands, scrubs, wet evergreen forest, etc.
Unique features It has a shell to protect from predation and other treats. They are the
longest-living land animals in the world. They are placid and slow
moving, with an average walking speed of 0.2-0.2km/h. The females
have smaller tails, dropped down, while the males have much longer
tails pulled upwards. It has an extremely small brain, which has a medial
cortex that may serve for emotional actions.
Feeding Habit and Herbivorous animals. They feed on grasses, weeds, leafy greens, flowers
Courtship Behaviours and some fruits. Although some omnivorous species exist.
Reproduction and Oviparous animals, which lay eggs that seldom exceeds 20 eggs.
lifespan Incubation Period: an average of between 100 and 160 days.
Lifespan: an average of 80 to 150 years.
Cage feature An open space with relatively small walls. An open area for breeding
should be provided.
Care in Captivity It is fed with rice and other foods.

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2.1.12 Warthog
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Phacochoerus africanus (Gmelin, 1788)
Ordinary: Common Warthog
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat It is the only pig species that has adapted to grazing and savanna
habitats. Although they can dig their own burrows, they commonly
occupy abandoned burrows of aardvarks and other animals. The
common warthogs, commonly reverses into burrows with its head facing
the opening and ready to burst out if necessary. They are not territorial
but instead occupy a home range.
Unique features It is identifiable by two pairs of tusks protruding from the mouth and
curving upwards. The lower pair which is far shorter than the upper pair
becomes razor-sharp by rubbing against the upper pair every time the
mouth is opened and closed. The tusks are used for combat and defense.
Feeding Habit and Ominivorous animals. It feeds on fruits, grasses, fungi, insects, eggs etc.
Courtship Behaviours The diet varies with seasons. In the wet season, it feeds on short
perennial grasses, but subsists on bulbs, rhizomes and nutritious roots in
the dry season.
Reproduction and They breed seasonally.
lifespan Gestation Period: 5 to 6 months
Litter: 2 to 8 piglets.
They exhibit allosucking, whereby they nurse foster piglets if they lose
theirs.
Males aggressively fight each other during mating season. Its common
defense is to flee by means of fast sprinting. Both sexes begin to mark
around 6 to 7 months old. Males tend to mark more than females. They
mark sleeping and feeding areas with waterholes. They us tusk marking
for courtship, for antagonistic behaviours and to establish status.
Lifespan: average of 15 years in the wild.
Cage feature Strong iron barricaded cages due to aggression. Pond supply to cool
body temperatures.
Care in Captivity They are provided with good food, and pond facilities for cooling their
body temperatures.

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2.2 AVES

2.2.1 Black Crowned Crane

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Balearica pavonina (Linnaeus, 1758)
Ordinary name: Black crowned crane
IUCN Status: Vulnerable (VU)
Natural Habitat It is found in the shallow wetlands of sub-Saharan Africa during the wet
season, which acts as its principal breeding, feeding and roosting sites. It
can also be found foraging in grasslands and near croplands of dry
savanna.
Unique features It has a characteristics bristle-feathered golden crown and a dark slate-
grey to black plumage. It has a gular sac hanging under their chins.
Their long legs and their toes are black, and they possess a long hind toe
that allows them to grasp onto perches.
Feeding Habit and They are generalist feeders, with a diet consisting of insects like
Courtship Behaviours grasshoppers, locust, and flies; other invertebrates like molluscs,
millipedes, crustaceans; fishes, amphibians and small reptiles.
Reproduction and Breeding may occur from May to December. The success of breeding is
lifespan dependent on the wet and dry seasons and the suitability of the
environment.
Viviparous animals. it lays between 1 to 3 eggs.
Incubation Period: Incubation is done by both sexes and lasts for 28-31
days.
Lifespan: 25-40 years in captivity.
Cage feature Open cages, with tall fences. Wide space for roaming about. A shelter
space for staying away from sun and rain.
Care in Captivity

2.2.2 Eagle
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Ordinary name: White-tailed eagle
Eagle is the common name for many large birds of prey of the family
Accipitridae.
IUCN Status: Least concern (LC)
Natural Habitat Bald eagles usually prefer areas near large water bodies such as sea
coasts, coastal estuaries and inland lakes and rivers.
Unique features They are large powerfully built birds of prey, with heavy heads and
beaks. The females are larger than the males. They are known for
excellent eyesight, and high flight. They seasonal pluck of their feathers
and beaks to allow for increased strength.
Feeding Habit and They have a fairly wide diet, but generally prefer fish.

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Courtship Behaviours
Reproduction and They are monogamous. Eagles normally build their nest (Eyries) in tall
lifespan trees or on high cliffs. Many species lay two eggs, but the older, larger
chick frequently kills its younger sibling once it has hatched. The
dominant chick tends to be a female, as they are bigger than the male.
The parents take no action to stop the killing.
They are known to mate for life.
Incubation period: 35 days
Lifespan: 20 to 30 years in captivity, about 19 years in the wild.
Cage feature Enclosed cages are required to prevent escape. Branches for perching
should be provided.
Care in Captivity

2.2.3 Emu
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Dromaius novaehollandiae (Latham, 1790)
Ordinary: Emu
IUCN status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat They are most common in areas of savannah woodland and sclerophyll
forest. They are least common in heavily populated districts and arid
areas with annual precipitation of less than 600 millimeters. They are
diurnal birds which spend their day foraging, preening their plumage
with their beak, dust bathing and resting.
Unique features They are soft-feathered, brown flightless birds with long necks and legs,
reaching up to 1.9 m in height. Emus are the fourth or fifth heaviest
living bird after the two species of ostrich and two larger species of
cassowary. They have three toes on each foot in a tridactyl arrangement.
They have long necks and are able to swim when necessary. Emus
typically awake from deep sleep once every ninety minutes or so and
stand upright to feed briefly or defecate.
Feeding Habit and They forage for a variety of plants and insects, but have been known to
Courtship Behaviours go for weeks without eating. They drink infrequently, but take in
copious amounts of water when the opportunity arises.
Fighting among females for a mate is common.
Reproduction and Breeding takes place in May and June. Females can mate several times
lifespan and lay several clutches of eggs in one season. The male does the
incubation, during which he hardly eats or drinks and loses a significant
amount of weight.
Female lays between 5 to 15 eggs.
Cage feature Open cages with tall fences.
Care in Captivity

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2.2.4 Fantail Pigeon
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Columbidae livia
Ordinary name: Fantail Pigeon
IUCN Status: Least concern (LC)
Natural Habitat
Unique features It is a popular breed of fancy pigeon, characterized by fan-shaped tail,
which is composed of 30 to 40 feathers.
Feeding Habit and
Courtship Behaviours
Reproduction and
lifespan
Cage feature
Care in Captivity

2.2.5 Marabou Stork

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific name: Cicona cicona
Ordinary name: Marabou stork
IUCN status: Least concern (LC)
Natural Habitat
Unique features
Feeding Habit and
Courtship Behaviours
Reproduction and
lifespan
Cage feature
Care in Captivity

2.2.6 Ostrich
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Struthio camelus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Ordinary name: Common Ostrich
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat Common ostriches prefer open land and are native to the savannahs and
Sahel of Africa. They are diurnal, but may be active on moonlit nights.
Unique features It is distinctive in its appearance, with long neck and legs, and can run
for a long time at a speed of 55 km/h, with short bursts up to about 70
km/h, which is the fastest land speed of any bird. It is the largest living
species of bird and lays the largest eggs of any living bird. The bird has
just two toes on each foot, and has the largest eyes among land

13
 vertebrates.
Feeding Habit and Diet consists mainly of plant matter, though it also eats invertebrates.
Courtship Behaviours Since they lack teeth, they swallow pebbles that act as gastroliths to
grind food in the gizzard. They can go for several days without drinking
for several days, using metabolic water and moisture in ingested plants.
It lives in nomadic groups of 5 to 50 birds. Mating patterns differ by
geographical region, but territorial males fight for a harem of 2 to 7
females.
Reproduction and Sexually mature at 2 to 4 years. Mating season begins in March or April
lifespan and ends sometimes before September. The dominant female lays her
egg first. The eggs are incubated by the females by day and males at
night.
Incubation period: 35 to 45 days.
Lifespan: in captivity an average of 62 years.
Cage feature Open cage (at the top), but with tall fences to prevent escape. Wide
space is required for roaming about. Walls could be made of wire,
Care in Captivity The common ostrich is farmed around the world, particularly for its
feathers, which are decorative and are used as feather dusters.

2.2.7 Pea-fowl
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Pavo cristatus
Ordinary: Pea cock (Male); Peahen (Female)
Natural Habitat
Unique features The male peafowl are known for their piercing calls and their
extravagant plumage. White peafowl are not albinos, but simply
displays genetic condition called leucism.
Feeding Habit and Peafowl are omnivores and eat mostly plants, flower petals seed heads
Courtship Behaviours insect and other arthropods, reptiles and amphibians. The male displays
their plumage as part of a courtship ritual. The females decide to mate
with the male with bigger, brighter peacock trains, as they tend to have
better genes in the peahen’s eyes. This is done for reproductive success
and likelihood of survival of her chicks.
Reproduction and They are polygamous.
lifespan
Cage feature Enclosed cages are preferable to prevent escape.
Care in Captivity

2.2.8 African Cukoo hawk

Characteristics Description

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Nomenclature Scientifc name: Aviced cuculoides
Ordinary name: African Cukoo hawk
IUCN Status: Least concern (LC)
Natural Habitat
Unique features
Feeding Habit and
Courtship Behaviours
Reproduction and
lifespan
Cage feature
Care in Captivity

2.2.9 Vulture
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Coragyps atratus
Ordinary name: Vulture
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat
Unique features A characteristic feature of many vulture is a bald head, devoid of
feathers. This skin is thought to keep the head clean when feeding, and
also plays an important role in thermoregulation. They have been
observed to hunch their bodies and tuck in their heads in the cold, and
open their wings and stretch their necks in the heat. They also urinate on
themselves as a means of cooling their bodies.
Feeding Habit and Vultures are scavengers (feed on dead animals). They rarely attack
Courtship Behaviours healthy animals, but may kill the wounded or sick.
Reproduction and
lifespan
Cage feature Enclosed cages made of iron are required to prevent escape. Tree
branches should be arranged across the cage for perching and sitting.
Care in Captivity

2.2.10 White Indian Peafowl

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific : Pavo cristatus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Ordinary name: White Indian Peafowl
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat It lives mainly on ground in open forest or on land under cultivation
where they forage for berries and grains. It is found in moist and dry-
deciduous forest
Unique features The peacock is brightly coloured with a predominantly blue fan-like
crest of spatula-tipped wire-like feathers. The Peahen lacks the train and

15
 are white in colour showing luecism.
Feeding Habit and They are omnivorous. They feed on berries, grains, snakes, lizards and
Courtship Behaviours small rodents.
They are best known for the male’s extravagant display of feathers, from
which the peafowl determines its choice of mate.
Reproduction and Peacocks are polygamous, and the breeding season is spread out, but
lifespan appears to be dependent on the rains.
Incubation period: 28 days (4 to 8 eggs)
Lifespan: an average of 15 years in the wild and 23 years in captivity.
Cage feature An open space for roaming about, but enclosed cage to prevent escape.
Care in Captivity

16
2.3 REPTILES

2.3.1 African Rock Python

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Python sebae (Gmelin, 1788)
Ordinary name: African Rock Python
IUCN Status: Least concern (LC)
Natural Habitat The snake is found in forest to near desert habitats, but usually near
water sources.
Unique features It is Africa’s largest snake and one of the six largest snake species in the
world of about 6m (20 ft). They become dormant during the dry season.
It rarely kills humans. It is non-venomous and kills by constriction.
Feeding Habit and It is carnivorous. It feeds on large rodents, monkeys, warthogs etc.
Courtship Behaviours
Reproduction and It reproduces by egg-laying.
lifespan They are oviparous and reproduce in the spring. They lay between 20
and 100 eggs.
Cage feature Water supply (Water pits) and earthen pots are required. Glass cage
cover to prevent attack on visitors and observers. Few rocks could be
attached to its habitat.
Care in Captivity Should be fed once a week or once a fortnight, with live animal.

2.3.1 Nile-Crocodile
Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific : Crocodylus niloticus (Laurenti, 1768)
Ordinary name: Nile crocodile
IUCN Status: Least concern (LC)
Natural Habitat They inhabit fresh water habitats, such as rivers, lakes and sometimes in
brackish water and salt water. They are nocturnal hunters.
Unique features It has narrower and longer heads compared to alligators and caimans. It
has a v-shaped mouth. All teeth are visible, with its teeth fitting into a
constriction when closed. They have much levels of aggression and can
tolerate salt water due to specialized salt glands. They have very good
night vision, with well developed olfaction (outside water, but unlikely
so under water). Sex of the young ones is determined by temperature.
Feeding Habit and They are carnivorous feeding on vertebrates and invertebrates. They lay
Courtship Behaviours ambush for their prey. They are the most social of reptiles and tolerate
each other at times of feeding and basking.
Reproduction and They lay eggs in holes or mound nest. Mating takes place in water,
lifespan while egg laying takes place usually at night.
Offspring: at 30°c, females are born. At 31 ° c, both sexes, while 32 to
33 ° c gives mostly males.
Incubation period: Average of 80 days.

17
 Lifespan: Average of 30 to 40 years.
Cage feature Cage requires a pond, with wall barriers that prevents it from skidding
over the wall. It should have an egg-laying section where water is
absent.
Care in Captivity Young ones should be separated from adults to prevent cannibalism.
Pond water supply and clean environment for basking and reproduction
should be provided.

2.3.2 Puff Adder

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientific: Bitis arietans (Merrem, 1820)
Ordinary name: Puff Adder
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat They are found in savannah and grasslands. They are nocturnal.
Unique features It is a venomous viper species. It is reportedly responsible for causing
the most snakebite fatalities in Africa owing to various factors such as
its wide distribution, frequent occurrence in highly populated regions
and aggressive disposition. The colour pattern varies geographically. It
is usually a sluggish species and relies on camouflage for protection.
Feeding Habit and They forage, instead of ambushing. They are carnivorous, feeding on
Courtship Behaviours mammals, birds, amphibians and lizards. Females produce a pheromone
to attract males, which engae in neck-wrestling combat dances.
Reproduction and Large number of litters, of between 50 to 60, and sometimes 80.
lifespan
Cage feature Similar to that of African rock python, where earthen pots are required.
Glass cage cover to prevent attack on visitors and observers.
Care in Captivity They do well in captivity. However, they should be fed only one meal
per week. When offered all they can eat, the result is often death or at
best, wholesale regurgitation.

2.3.3 Royal Python

Characteristics Description
Nomenclature Scientifc: Python regius (Shaw, 1802)
Ordinary name: Ball or royal python
IUCN Status: Least Concern (LC)
Natural Habitat It prefers grasslands, savannah and sparsely wooded areas.
Unique features It is non-venomous. It is the smallest of African pythons. It is black or
dark brown with light brown blotches on the back and sides.
Feeding Habit and Carnivorous in nature. They feed on small mammals, such as rodents,
Courtship Behaviours birds etc.
Reproduction and They are Oviparous, laying 3 to 11 leathery eggs.
lifespan Incubation period: 55 to 60 days.

18
 Lifespan: An average of 60 years in captivity.
Cage feature Glass covering to prevent attacks on observers. Sandy soils for egg
laying.
Care in Captivity They are good pets in captivity. Males tend to be semi-arboreal, while
females are terrestrial. They are incubated at temperatures between 88 to
90 ° F. Their habitats should be kept secure so as to prevent escape.

19
2.4 Picture Library of Selected Animals among the Observed Animals at the zoo

Plate 1: Tortoise Plate 2: A Bald Eagle Plate 3: Crested Porcupine

Plate 6: Baboon
Plate 4: Ball Python Plate 5: Ostrich

Plate 8: White Indian Peafowl

Plate 7: Black crowned crane Plate 9: Emu

Plate 10: Nile Crocodile

Plate 11: Wart Hog Plate 12: Leopard

20
 Plate 13: CHimpanzee Plate 14:Peacock Plate 15: Vulture

CHAPTER THREE

3.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

3.1 Conclusion
Captivity breeding is beneficial for animal species survival, and conservation of
biodiversity. The report shows that the role of unilorin zoological garden in wildlife management
and species conservation is not in doubt. However, optimal level of productivity is yet to be

21
reached, as certain species lack opposite sexes, while facilities for breeding are not in service.
Similarly, such species within the classes of pisces and amphibians are not conserved within the
zoological garden. Furthermore, it was found that 5 species encountered are at higher risk as
judged by the IUCN standard. This shows the importance of the existence of the zoological
garden in conserving this species.

On the part of the students, the visit to the zoo was relevant as a practical exposure to wildlife
management and biodiversity conservation. The visit marked the first physical encounter of
some of the students with these wild animals, and as such, has enlightened them about the
behavioural patterns and nature of these animals in captivity.

3.2 Recommendation
The long life span of these animals proves that managing the zoological garden will be a long
term source of income for its owners. Therefore, it is recommended that active partnership with
investors be encouraged to improve optimal productivity of the zoo. Moreso, video
documentation of animal behaviours, can be done which can serve as complimentary teaching
aids and for reference purposes.

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