A zoo in Switzerland has hired Butlins-style redcoats to entertain the animals.

The professional motivators, who begin work in January, will ensure the creatures do not get bored while restrained within the zoo's parameters.

"In nature, animals spend their whole day looking for food," said animal psychologist Jennifer Ringleb. "In zoos they have nothing to do.

"In extreme cases they will get sick or aggressive. Animals that have something to do are happier and more balanced."

Footballs, cardboard boxes, plastic bags and blocks of wood will be used as toys, reports Orange.