The ABR cubs, at 8 months of age, are like young animals of every species, including human. They like to play, and they often invent games to entertain themselves. These games serve the purpose of developing their strength and coordination. Recently, the cubs in Wild Enclosure #2 invented the “Tarp Game,” and played it for several hours.
This tarp has been used by previous groups of cubs, as well. The tarp is on the Acclimation Pen for Wild Enclosure #2.The cubs get ready and set the rules (we think).The object of the game seems to be that one cub sticks its nose (schnoz) out of a hole, and the other players swat it.Sometimes a bit of nose-licking occurs. Maybe it’s an apology for the swats?A schnoz can be swatted from the front or back of the tarp.To play, a cub must be patient and have fast reflexes.As always, there must be shenanigans and chaos.More chaos!C’mon, let’s play some more.Another variation of the game is to swat at the caboose of a cub. This requires a larger hole, of course.
The idea of a “Tarp Game” is fanciful, of course, but there does seem to be a method to their madness, and some sort of “rules” to their game. It’s fun for us, as spectators, thanks to the enclosure cams.
