Brookfield, Ill.—Now that the holiday season is over, Brookfield Zoo’s Grounds staff is chipping more than 800 trees, which were decorated by community organizations, families, and corporations and on display for Holiday Magic. The mulch will be used for landscaping around the 235-acre park. However, as in past years, several dozen trees are being repurposed and given to the animals for enrichment.

Today, January 13, Hudson, a 16-year-old polar bear, received a tree adorned with some of his favorites vegetables and lard. The zoo’s African lions—Brutus and Titus—seemed to enjoy the raw meat hidden in their trees as well as the trees themselves, which were hung from bungee cords. Animal care specialists placed bones and pig ears and snouts on the trees given to the African painted dogs. And, the zoo’s bison and reindeer used the trees to rub their horns and antlers on and even toss around.

Winter is a great time to visit Brookfield Zoo to see many of the animals who enjoy the cooler months. Guests can also warm up indoors in the animal buildings with a more tropical climate. In January and February on Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, admission to the zoo is free (parking fee still applies).

Animal care specialists are always thinking of ways to physically and mentally stimulate the animals at Brookfield Zoo. One way is by providing them with enrichment items they normally do not receive on a regular basis, including the seasonal trees.