Ep 5. Playing Match Maker

In season 8 episode 5 of The Secret Life of the Zoo, titled "Playing Match Maker," viewers are taken behind the scenes once again at the Chester Zoo in England to witness the unique relationships forged between animals. The episode follows the zoo's dedicated team of keepers and veterinarians as they work to help their animal charges find companionship and, in some cases, make the transition back to life in the wild.

One of the main storylines of "Playing Match Maker" centers around the zoo's two rare Sumatran tigers, Kirana and Fabi. Keepers hope to breed the pair, but first they must be introduced to each other and acclimate to one another's presence. The episode shows how Kirana and Fabi are slowly introduced to each other, first through scent exchange before finally being allowed to meet face-to-face. Viewers see the tigers slowly get used to each other's company, with Kirana demonstrating some initial wariness but eventually allowing Fabi to come closer.

Elsewhere in the zoo, a team of keepers work with a group of gelada monkeys, which are native to Ethiopia and known for their unique social structures. The episode shows how the keepers use food to help the male geladas bond with the females, in the hopes of facilitating breeding behavior. Viewers also see how the keepers work with the geladas to acclimate them to a new enclosure, which allows for more space and more varied terrain.

Another storyline in "Playing Match Maker" follows the zoo's meerkats, who have recently welcomed some new additions to their group. Some of the meerkats are having trouble adjusting to the newcomers, prompting the keepers to intervene in order to prevent any aggressive behavior. Viewers see how the keepers use various strategies to help the meerkats bond and form a cohesive group, including the use of treats and toys.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of the animals in their various habitats, as well as commentary from the keepers who work with them on a daily basis. The episode also offers some insight into the challenges faced by zoos in balancing the needs of their animals with the need to preserve endangered species and promote conservation efforts.

Overall, "Playing Match Maker" is an engaging and informative episode of The Secret Life of the Zoo that highlights the fascinating relationships between animals and the dedicated professionals who work to keep them healthy and happy. The episode is a must-watch for fans of the show and animal lovers alike.