Israeli animals showing signs of post-war stress

Animals at the Haifa Zoo had their first breath of fresh air on Tuesday after taking a 34-day refuge in shelters, away from the thunder of rockets and gunfire.

Now, zoo officials say some species are showing signs of stress and weight gain, which can potentially endanger their lives.

Fragile species such as gazelles are more at risk, as they tend to suffer from heart attacks when stressed.

The zookeepers say the gazelles were outdoors when the fighting began, and several bombs went off around them before being taken into shelter.

While in hiding, the zookeepers used different methods to keep the animals busy and active.

Meat was hung off the ceilings of leopard and tiger cages so the animals could jump for them.

Zoo officials also stuffed jelly in bamboo shoots to let the monkeys dig around it for their food.

The officials say the zoo's business is suffering now, as July and August were the biggest tourist months of the year.

Photography: Jerusalem Shots

Source: Discovery Channel Reports, August 17 edition