When Animal Care Specialists, Zookeepers & Curators talk about how we work to make sure animal breeding pairs are compatible, you may hear a comparison to on-line dating. My friends at Big Bear Alpine Zoo have done a fine job taking it to the next level with this fun & educational post. ♥️ RePosted • @bigbearalpinezoo • Hello- my name is Luna, a ring-tailed cat and I am expecting a mate soon. Thanks to the SSP (Species Survival Plan) coordinator for ring-tailed cats, my mate has been selected based on our genetics, meaning that we are very distantly related and that makes for a good match. The management of species through SSP helps promote the sustainability of our captive species. SSP looks for genetic variability during the selection process but my needs are simple. So...what do I look for in a mate? --must love the nightlife (nocturnal). --good taste in fruits, vegetables, small rodents, lizards, and especially BUGS! --must enjoy climbing- a deal breaker if you can rotate your hind feet 180 degrees. --shared hatred of great horned owls, bobcats, and coyotes. --no raccoons need apply! (ring-tailed cats and raccoons are in the same family). Although you are a Least Concern species with IUCN, you'll be my rare find. Thank you AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) SSP! #SSPmate #loversofthenight #cactusclimber #Wildlife #wildlifeeducation #BigBear #BigBearAlpineZoo #wildlifeconservation #RingTailCat (at Big Bear Alpine Zoo) https://www.instagram.com/p/B2fcJ-TF77S/?igshid=1a8z7q9dm6j55
