So it came to my attention that many animals get stone fruit with the seeds. These seeds generally contain cyanide. I've seen potoroos eating apple seeds, porcupine eating mango seeds (as a normal part of their diet) and many smaller mammals and birds get these kind of seeds too. What is a zookeeper's opinion on giving these food items to animals?
Not a zookeeper but an apple seed contains a tiny amount of cyanide within, and one which is not likely to cause any sort of problem to the animal. Furthermore the animals mentioned both have monogastric systems, conferring much greater tolerance to cyanide poisoning. I don't work in a zoo but I'm sure the keepers know what they're doing when they give the animals such food.
Im a trainee keeper and have been told this same thing, and while its true in particular with small birds , its pretty easy to pick them out when preparing food but not the end of the world if you miss one or two. I would say its more something to be aware of when making food
