Brian Leiper, the gerbil judge, with Nanda Vermeulen-Slik assisting, at the 7th Annual International Kangerfestijn
So what is the Knagerfestijn?
Every year at Ouwehand Zoo, Rhenen, The Netherlands an international small animal show is held. In addition various societies have stands and it is possible to buy all sorts of small animal related bits and pieces. There is an auction where you can buy small animals. The event is financed in part by proceeds from the auction. Normally, on the Saturday, there is a show for gerbils, hamsters, rats and mice. A show for rabbits and cavies is held on the Sunday.
The Trophy Table
Most importantly, the Knagerfestijn is an opportunity for people from all over the world with an interest in small animals to meet up. As the NGS has many international members, it was nice to meet up with some of them for the first time.
The Gerbil Genetics Group once again had a stand with examples of many o the colours they are studying. At their stand I was able to take photos of dilute gerbils and descendants of wild caught gerbils.
As is usual, the Gerbil Genetics Group had a stand displaying some of the new colours
Ouwehand Zoo
The zoo is has a good range of animals all housed in large well designed enclosures. The zoo is particularly famous for a large wooded area where wolves and rescued European bears can roam freely. Don't worry about safety, humans are confined to a raised walkway and an enclosed tunnel!
One of the wolves enjoying the exceptionally good weather
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Last updated 25 September 2005