Zoo critters do some Halloween pumpkin-smashing

[November 01, 2010]  ASHEBORO, N.C. (AP) -- Even some of the critters at the North Carolina Zoo can partake in a long-standing tradition of Halloween mischief: pumpkin-smashing.

The zoo is holding its annual "Pachyderm Pumpkin Pounding" on Sunday, which is Halloween.

Elephants, gorillas and chimpanzees will all have a chance to pulverize and partake of pumpkins in their exhibits. It's all part of the zoo's ongoing animal enrichment program.

Zookeepers say the pumpkins provide both mental and physical stimulation for the animals, allowing them to manipulate, taste and smell the giant vegetables.

[Associated Press]

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