As the Duanwu Festival, also known as the Dragon Boat Festival, approaches, the Yunnan Wildlife Park in Kunming has found a unique way to involve its animal residents in the celebrations. Zookeepers have prepared special “zongzi” treats—traditional sticky rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves—tailored to the dietary needs of various animals.
The small-clawed otters eagerly devoured their fish-filled zongzi, while the ring-tailed lemurs nibbled on fruit-filled versions. Orangutans enjoyed zongzi stuffed with nuts and seeds, and the black swans gracefully pecked at their grain-based treats floating on the water. Even the raccoons had their own special zongzi, filled with a mix of fruits and vegetables.
“We wanted to share the joy of the Duanwu Festival with our animal friends,” said Li Wei, a zookeeper at the park. “By creating these special treats, we’re not only enriching their diets but also providing stimulation and variety in their daily routines.”
The Duanwu Festival, celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, is a cultural tradition that honors the ancient poet Qu Yuan. Families across China prepare and eat zongzi, race dragon boats, and participate in various festivities. By including the animals in these traditions, the park aims to educate visitors about cultural heritage and promote wildlife conservation.
Visitors to the park during the festival period can witness the animals enjoying their zongzi and learn more about the significance of the Duanwu Festival. The initiative has been well-received by guests, especially families and children, who find the experience both educational and entertaining.
“It’s wonderful to see how the park integrates cultural traditions with animal care,” remarked Zhang Mei, a visitor from Shanghai. “My kids loved watching the animals eat the zongzi, and it was a great way to teach them about the festival’s history.”
The Yunnan Wildlife Park plans to continue this tradition in the coming years, hoping to foster a deeper connection between humans, animals, and cultural practices.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
