Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa - Hungry, Hungry Dragons (S1E5)
Walter, a Florida panther, is getting a thorough exam after getting caught in a snare, while a bear cat mating pair settles into its new home.
| Runtime (min) | 45 |
|---|---|
| Air Date | 2020-02-09 |
| Genres | Documentary |
| Network(s) | Nat Geo Wild |
Storyline
This episode of Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa follows two major animal stories unfolding at ZooTampa at Lowry Park. Walter, a Florida panther, arrives at the zoo's veterinary hospital after being rescued from the wild with injuries sustained from a snare trap. The veterinary team conducts a comprehensive physical examination to assess the damage to his leg and paw, determine whether he can be treated and released back into his natural habitat, or whether his injuries will require long-term care. The exam reveals the extent of the trauma and helps the staff decide on the best course of action for this endangered big cat.
Meanwhile, the zoo welcomes a pair of binturongs—also known as bear cats—as they settle into their new exhibit space. The staff hopes this male and female pairing will eventually breed, contributing to the conservation of this vulnerable species. Keepers monitor the animals closely as they explore their habitat and begin to interact with one another, watching for signs of compatibility and comfort in their new environment.
What kids learn
Children watching this episode can learn about the real-world dangers that wild animals face, even in protected habitats. Walter's story illustrates how human activities—such as illegal trapping—can harm endangered species like the Florida panther. Kids see firsthand how wildlife veterinarians and rescue teams work together to save injured animals, demonstrating the importance of compassion, scientific knowledge, and quick action in conservation efforts.
The binturong segment teaches children about species preservation and the role zoos play in breeding programs for vulnerable animals. Young viewers learn that zoos are not just places to see animals, but active participants in protecting species that are threatened in the wild. They observe how animal care specialists create environments that meet the specific needs of different species and carefully monitor animal behavior to ensure their well-being.
The episode also reinforces the concept of patience and careful observation in animal care. Whether assessing Walter's injuries or watching the binturongs adjust to their new home, the zoo staff models thoughtful, methodical approaches to problem-solving and decision-making that prioritize the animals' health and long-term welfare.
Parents' top 5 questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the veterinary exam of Walter the panther too graphic for young children? | The examination scenes are handled professionally and are not gratuitous. The veterinary team is shown assessing Walter's injuries, but the footage avoids close-up graphic detail of wounds. The focus remains on the care process rather than shocking imagery. Sensitive younger viewers might feel concern for the injured animal, so parents can reassure them that Walter is receiving expert help and explain that veterinarians work to reduce pain and promote healing. |
| What should I tell my child about why Walter was caught in a snare? | This is an opportunity to discuss how human activities can unintentionally harm wildlife. Explain that snares are traps sometimes set illegally or carelessly, and that Florida panthers are endangered, meaning there are very few left in the wild. Emphasize that many people, including the zoo staff, work hard to protect these animals and that Walter's rescue shows how communities can help wildlife in trouble. Keep the conversation age-appropriate and solution-focused. |
| Will Walter be able to return to the wild? | The episode shows the veterinary team evaluating Walter's condition to determine whether his injuries will allow him to survive independently in his natural habitat. The decision depends on the severity of his injuries and his ability to hunt and move safely. This uncertainty can be a teaching moment about how wildlife rehabilitation prioritizes the animal's long-term welfare, and that sometimes the kindest outcome is providing permanent sanctuary care if release isn't viable. |
| What is a binturong, and why does the zoo want them to breed? | Binturongs, also called bear cats, are tree-dwelling mammals from Southeast Asia that are classified as vulnerable due to habitat loss. The zoo participates in breeding programs to maintain healthy populations of at-risk species. Explain to children that zoos work together worldwide to protect animals whose wild homes are disappearing, and that having babies at the zoo helps ensure these species don't go extinct. It's a concrete example of conservation in action. |
| How can my child help protect animals like Walter and the binturongs? | Encourage age-appropriate actions such as learning about endangered species, supporting wildlife organizations, reducing waste to protect habitats, and being respectful of wild animals and their environments. Older children might be interested in citizen science projects or fundraising for conservation groups. Emphasize that even small actions matter and that caring about animals is the first step toward making a difference. The episode itself models how dedicated professionals turn that care into meaningful work. |
Writing
Directing
| Season # | Episode # | Episode Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | The Zoo Tampa family is about to get bigger as Ceduna the Female Koala has a baby inside her pouch, while an ill tortoise gets breakfast in bed. |
| 1 | 2 | It's spring at ZooTampa, and the animals are emerging from hibernation. |
| 1 | 3 | Love is in the air at ZooTampa, but one-horned rhino Johnny misses his love connection. |
| 1 | 4 | Baby fever takes over ZooTampa as the penguin keepers go on egg watch. |
| 1 | 5 | Walter, a Florida panther, is getting a thorough exam after getting caught in a snare, while a bear cat mating pair settles into its new home. |
| 1 | 6 | ZooTampa's three chimpanzees prepare to retire, and rescued manatees are welcomed to the newly renovated ZooTampa Manatee hospital. |
| Season # | Episode # | Episode Name |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 1 | Two orphaned panther kittens explore new environments. |
| 2 | 2 | Counting down the days until the new baby penguins arrive. |
| 2 | 3 | Things are chilly at ZooTampa! As the temperature drops in Florida, the animal care team must help... |
| 2 | 4 | The leopards move, and the wolves say goodbye to the zoo. |
| 2 | 5 | A newborn rhino needs to be named; a monkey faces a crisis. |
| 2 | 6 | Preparing to relocate two panther cubs; testing a manatee. |
| Season # | Episode # | Episode Name |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 1 | It's a waiting game for the ZooTampa team as they anxiously await the birth of a rare Indian rhino baby. After 16 long months, the calf is almost here! |
| 3 | 2 | |
| 3 | 3 | |
| 3 | 4 | |
| 3 | 5 | |
| 3 | 6 | |
| 3 | 7 | |
| 3 | 8 | |
| 3 | 9 | |
| 3 | 10 | |
| 3 | 11 | |
| 3 | 12 |
| Season # | Episode # | Episode Name |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 1 | ZooTampa rolls out the red carpet for new arrivals, big and small. |
| 4 | 2 | A clouded leopard mystery, two new giraffes and a growing binturong family. |
| 4 | 3 | |
| 4 | 4 | |
| 4 | 5 | |
| 4 | 6 | |
| 4 | 7 | |
| 4 | 8 | |
| 4 | 9 | A rescued panther inspires an expedition to improve safety. |
| 4 | 10 | Triumph turns to concern after the historic birth of red wolf pups. |
| 4 | 11 | The Florida team nurses orphan manatees; a young primate learns the ropes. |
| 4 | 12 | A team of doctors searches for answers to save a clouded leopard's life |
| 4 | 13 | Love is in the air at Zoo Tampa for some special animal couples. |
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