Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa - Kitty Kitty Fang Fang (S2E6)
Preparing to relocate two panther cubs; testing a manatee.
| Runtime (min) | 45 |
|---|---|
| Air Date | 2020-08-24 |
| Genres | Documentary |
| Network(s) | Nat Geo Wild |
Storyline
This episode of Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa follows the zoo's animal care team as they prepare two young panther cubs for an important relocation. The cubs require careful health assessments, behavioral evaluations, and transport planning to ensure their safe journey to a new facility. The veterinary and keeper staff work together to monitor the cubs' readiness, addressing any medical or developmental concerns before the move can proceed.
Meanwhile, the aquatic animal team focuses on a manatee that needs diagnostic testing. The gentle marine mammal undergoes a thorough veterinary examination to assess its health status and determine whether it can be released back into the wild or requires continued care at the facility. The episode highlights the specialized protocols and equipment needed to safely handle and evaluate these large, sensitive aquatic animals while minimizing stress.
What kids learn
Children watching this episode can learn about the complex care that endangered and vulnerable species require in modern zoological facilities. The panther cub relocation demonstrates that moving animals isn't simply a matter of transportation—it involves veterinary checkups, behavioral assessments, and careful planning to protect the animals' physical and emotional well-being. Young viewers see how professionals collaborate across specialties to make decisions in the best interest of each animal.
The manatee examination teaches kids about marine mammal rehabilitation and the role zoos and aquariums play in conservation. Children learn that wild animals sometimes need human intervention when injured or sick, and that trained experts use specialized techniques to diagnose problems while keeping the animal as comfortable as possible. The episode illustrates the patience, gentleness, and scientific knowledge required to work with large aquatic species.
Throughout both storylines, the episode reinforces the importance of wildlife conservation and the dedication of the people who devote their careers to protecting vulnerable species. Kids see that caring for animals requires teamwork, problem-solving, and a deep respect for each creature's unique needs.
Parents' top 5 questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Why are the panther cubs being relocated to another facility? | The episode shows the cubs being prepared for relocation as part of coordinated conservation and breeding programs. Zoos work together to manage populations of endangered species like panthers, moving animals between facilities to ensure genetic diversity and appropriate social groupings. The relocation represents careful planning to give these cubs the best chance to thrive and potentially contribute to the survival of their species. |
| Is the medical testing shown with the manatee stressful for the animal? | The episode demonstrates that the veterinary team uses specialized techniques designed to minimize stress during the manatee's examination. The staff works calmly and efficiently, using equipment adapted for large aquatic animals. While any medical procedure involves some disruption, the professionals shown prioritize the manatee's comfort and safety throughout the process, completing necessary diagnostics as quickly and gently as possible. |
| What age level is appropriate for this episode? | This episode is suitable for elementary-aged children and older. The content focuses on routine veterinary care and animal husbandry without graphic medical procedures or distressing outcomes. Younger children interested in animals will find the behind-the-scenes zoo work engaging, while the conservation themes offer learning opportunities for older kids. The tone remains educational and positive throughout. |
| Does the episode explain why panthers and manatees need protection? | The episode contextualizes the care shown by highlighting that both panthers and manatees face conservation challenges. While the primary focus is on the immediate veterinary and husbandry work, the program conveys that these species require human intervention due to habitat loss, human activity, and population pressures. The conservation message is woven into the animal care storylines rather than presented as separate educational segments. |
| Will my child see any animals in distress or pain? | The episode maintains a calm, professional tone throughout both storylines. The animals shown are receiving routine care and assessments rather than emergency treatment. While the manatee undergoes testing and the cubs are handled for health checks, the procedures are presented matter-of-factly without dwelling on discomfort. The focus remains on the expertise and compassion of the care teams working with these animals. |
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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