A day at Werribee Open Range Zoo in lockdown

Two ageing Australian native potoroos voluntarily accept daily eye-drops from their keepers to manage a degenerative eye condition common in the species. It is a stress-free method that sees the potoroos rewarded with tasty vegetables and high-value foods such as peanut butter. Photo: Supplied/Zoos Victoria 213578_01

Werribee Open Range Zoo is home to hundreds of animals and is a place for visitors to connect with wildlife, bond with nature and learn about conservation.

While the zoo’s gates are temporarily closed to visitors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the vets and keepers continue their essential work behind the scenes to provide care for animals of all shapes and sizes.

Werribee Open Range Zoo is sharing a series of new behind-the-scenes photos, showcasing the ongoing care of its animals through daily training and enrichment programs and the continuing rescue and recovery work with threatened species and injured wildlife.

The photos provide a unique insight into current zoo life behind closed doors, and how the dedicated zoo staff are ensuring all the animals are thriving while awaiting the return of visitors.

Animal lovers at home can also stay connected with the zoo’s animals through Zoos Victoria’s live stream cameras at zoo.org.au/animals-at-home.