Dara Moves In
from Annette Olsson, Phnom Tamau Wildlife Rescue Centre, Cambodia
Tuesday 17th June 2008

The release ceremony went really well this morning! Data was blessed and released in his new home. Cautious at first (although very calm all the way through although many people there), he quickly took to his new home. He has not has access to swimming water for a long time, so when he overcame his first fear of letting go of the safe land, he loved swimming around, diving, twisting and turning in the water! He also explored the land areas; running around, playing, attacking scrub and pulling around bits of grass. Very nice to watch.

We have someone out there everyday for the next 5 or 6 days to note down his behavior and use of the enclosure.

Dara's new enclosure has been fully fitted out Click all photos to see larger versions
The monks blessing Dara as he takes his first peep at his new home from the safety of his carrying box
Dara approaches the monks. He is an incredibly tame and friendly animal, especially considering that he has not had a good start in life.
He's only had a shallow pond for the last nine months. It took him a while to remember that bigger areas of water are safe and fun!
Soon he was playing happily in the water
	We think Dara is happy in his new enclosure!

Dara's New Pen
from Annette Olsson, Phnom Tamau Wildlife Rescue Centre, Cambodia
Friday 6th June 2008

Visited the zoo this morning. The new enclosure looks like it will be great. I have attached a few photos. Part of it is in the sun, but there is also plenty of trees with shade. The pond is a nice size. There will be a large rock or two put in, a large log sticking out of the water, a concrete reinforced burrow, a wooden raised resting platform in a quiet corner, and grass on the ground (lets see how long the grass will last for…). It shouldl be finished in about 10 days time.

Here's some sneak preview pictures! Click on them for larger versions.