Mammal Department

AAP not only takes in primates, but also houses numerous other exotic mammals, such as raccoons, skunks, squirrels and meerkats. They live in the Mammal Department.

A number of smaller monkey species that need a tropical climate, such as the white-eared monkeys, also reside in this department. They live in the Tropical Greenhouse, along with other animal species that need a special climate. The other animals live in the Mammal Complex, which consists of a number of spacious outdoor enclosures. Climate control for so many different animals requires a separate approach. With the help of heating and air conditioning, we can simulate a variety of climates.

Variety

There is a lot involved in the work of animal caretakers in the Mammal Department. This is mainly because of the great variety of animal species in the Mammal Department. There are nocturnal and diurnal animals, climbers and diggers, group animals and solitary species and animals that like totally different climates. This requires not only a flexible attitude (preparing breakfast in the morning and in the evening!), but also a lot of knowledge. The caretakers are assisted by various nutrition and behavior experts.

The furnishing of the accommodations is completely attuned to the lifestyle of the inhabitants: swings and climbing ropes for tree inhabitants, tunnels, boxes and a thick layer of ground cover for ground animals. In addition, a separate diet is compiled for each animal. For example, some animals cannot tolerate fruit, while for other species it is the main food.

Unsuitable as pets

Unlike the monkeys, the animals of the Mammal Division, except for a few species, are not (yet) prohibited to keep as pets in the Netherlands and much of Europe. Anyone may buy them, even if they are not at all suitable as pets. In practice this means that almost all animals in this department are former pets, given away by disappointed or desperate owners.