Unlocking secrets: Inside the exotic animal milk repository

The video explores the Exotic Animal Milk Repository at the Smithsonian's National Zoo, led by Dr. Michael Power. It houses the world's largest collection of exotic animal milk samples. The repository serves two main purposes: understanding the origin of milk and developing milk replacer formulas for hand-rearing animals. The video highlights the case of baby Fiona, a premature hippo, and the collaborative efforts to create a suitable milk formula for her. Despite having samples from over 180 species, the repository has only scratched the surface of potential research opportunities.

What is the primary role of Dr. Michael Power at the Smithsonian's National Zoo?

• He is a zookeeper.

• He is the curator of the Exotic Animal Milk Repository.

• He is a wildlife photographer.

• He is a veterinarian.

How are milk samples collected from animals at the National Zoo?

• By collecting from the wild.

• By sedating the animals.

• By using robotic milking machines.

• Through voluntary donation by trained animals.

What are the two main purposes of the Exotic Mammal Milk Repository?

• To provide milk for human consumption and to study animal behavior.

• To create new animal species and to improve zoo facilities.

• To study the origin of milk and to develop milk replacers.

• To sell milk to local zoos and to conduct genetic research.

Why was a special milk formula needed for baby Fiona at the Cincinnati Zoo?

• She refused to drink any milk.

• She was allergic to her mother's milk.

• She was born six weeks premature and needed hand-raising.

• She was a new species of hippo.

What percentage of mammal species has the milk repository sampled so far?

• About 50%

• About 10%

• About 3%

• About 25%