WATCH: Zoo animals play musical instruments!
Just when you thought you'd seen everything...
With everything happening in the world, you often just need to watch a funny or adorable video.
Zoos can be controversial, but many do good work.
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Many wild animals will never be able to return to their natural habitats. Certain zoos help care for these animals and are important research centres.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C., was established in 1889 and is committed to helping save species and educating visitors.
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Zoo staff are responsible for caring for animals, feeding them, and ensuring they receive the best care possible.
This includes providing their residents with enrichment that contributes to their physical and mental health.
Since 2017, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo has taken a very creative and unique approach to providing for its animals.
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The zookeepers decided to provide musical instruments to their residents.
From a sloth bear playing the harmonica to otters playing an electric piano, these videos will, without a doubt, bring a smile to your face.
While cute and entertaining videos might be a byproduct of these activities, the zookeeper's main goal is to provide the animals with new mental stimulation.
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This allows animals to exercise, challenge themselves, and sharpen their mental skills.
This is also not the first time zookeepers have devised fun new ways of entertaining animals. They often use toys, food and recycled Christmas trees for entertainment.
Depending on the species, there are usually five types of enrichment: foraging, exploration, cognitive, sensory, and tool use.
Watch the videos below:
If you need some more feel-good content, the Smithsonian's National Zoo's YouTube channel has many videos that will fulfil that purpose:
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Main image courtesy of Smithsonian's National Zoo/YouTube