In our previous report (see news article below), we mentioned that Akagi, a Water Buffalo buffalo, has started using the pool in the newly completed exercise area.
- News article: "Water Buffalo enjoy a blissful moment in the pool" (July 11, 2008)

However, of the two Water Buffalo being kept, the female "Haruna" had not yet entered the pool due to her timid nature. Apparently, she had been reluctant to enter the pool even in the old enclosure, causing concern for the caretakers. In the news article mentioned above, it was written that "Haruna will soon enter the pool after seeing how comfortable the male looks," but I was wondering if something had to be done.

However, just eight days after July 4, 2008, when we first witnessed Akagi entering the pool, Haruna followed him in and entered the pool as well!

The previous pool had a sloping structure that got deeper towards the back, and I heard that Haruna didn't like the sloping surface under her feet. So, we made the new pool a "stepped" type. I think a big reason Haruna didn't "open the pool" was that she succumbed to the heat, but the pool's structure also seems to have played a part in reducing her resistance to it.

The deepest part of the new pool is nearly 1.7 meters deep. When they reach this depth, Water Buffalo seem to stand on their hind legs, but the red snapper can stay submerged for about a minute.

The sight of Water Buffalo in the pool is incredibly soothing, but they only bathe when the temperature is high. Summer is finally coming to an end and it's getting cooler, so if you want to see Water Buffalo bathing, be sure to go soon!

*The photo shows Haruna in the foreground.

[Keigo Yasaka, Animal Care and Exhibition Staff, South Tama Zoo]

(September 19, 2008)