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Erzinçlioğlu TS, Groves G, Ward S. An Analysis of Welfare Standards Within Tiger (Panthera tigris) Facilities in Thailand. Zoo Biol 2024; 43:545-555. [PMID: 39279339 PMCID: PMC11624624 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
In Thailand, tigers are more numerous in captivity than they are in the wild, with 51 facilities housing approximately 1962 tigers. As charismatic fauna, tigers are popular with tourists, and the majority of facilities offer a variety of entertainment activities with controversial reports towards the animals' welfare. The aim of this research was to investigate tiger welfare in Thai zoos to identify specific welfare issues. We assessed 34 tourism facilities holding tigers in Thailand in 2019 using a 25-point welfare assessment that utilizes the Five Domain model (incorporating all five domains: nutrition, physical environment, health, behavioural interactions and mental state). The mental domain score was derived from the scores of the other four domains. Additional data were collected from each facility, including the number of tigers, any colour variants, types of human interaction and admission cost. Welfare scores for each domain were calculated by totalling the scores per domain and dividing by the number of points allocated to that domain. A multiple regression was used to identify any significant predictors of mental domain score. The results revealed that the provision of a suitable physical environment scored the lowest, while nutrition scored the highest though this was still a low score overall. The multiple regression showed that 45.4% of the variance for the mental domain score was significantly affected by the number of colour variants housed and the types of human interaction available with facilities, with more of both these factors contributing to a more negative score. Our results demonstrate the need for urgent, comprehensive infrastructural, species-appropriate environment and design and animal management improvements to increase animal welfare. Informed institutional change toward the breeding and use of tigers for public interactions is also required. This is the first assessment completed of captive tiger welfare of tiger facilities in Thailand and shows that the welfare concerns encountered are within a high proportion (67%) of Thailand's facilities. This supports the need for the creation and enforcement of effective and clear captive wildlife operational standards to provide a sustained solution for captive tiger welfare and can provide a considered approach to ex-situ tiger management that, in conjunction with in-situ efforts, can improve much needed conservation efforts of this species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Samantha Ward
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental ScienceNottingham Trent UniversityNottinghamUK
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2
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Fitskie L, Kappelhof J, Cunha F. Effects of Random Feeding Schedule on Pacing in Asiatic Lions (Panthera leo persicus). Zoo Biol 2024; 43:590-594. [PMID: 39344305 PMCID: PMC11624625 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/01/2024]
Abstract
For large felids in the wild, intervals between feeding events are irregular since these depend on prey availability and individual hunting success. In contrast, many zoos feed their large felids on fixed schedules. Predictable feeding schedules could induce food anticipatory behavior, like pacing, and randomizing feeding schedules may reduce this anticipatory behavior. Furthermore, random feeding schedules create more variability in the animals environment, which may reduce frustration or boredom. This case study aimed to investigate the effects of a random feeding schedule on pacing behavior of captive Asiatic lions (Panthera leo persica) in the Rotterdam Zoo, The Netherlands. Study animals were observed directly under two treatments: "fixed feeding" (i.e., two fixed feeding days per week) and "random feeding" (i.e., two semi-randomly picked feeding days per week). Under the random feeding schedule, the mean pacing proportion of lions significantly decreased compared to the fixed feeding schedule. These findings suggest that a random feeding schedule could reduce pacing, either of anticipatory or stereotypic nature, in Asiatic lions. Random feeding schedules do pose a few logistic challenges, such as zookeeper schedules and transport or storage of feed. Nevertheless, random feeding could be a relatively inexpensive strategy to reduce pacing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Fitskie
- Behavioral Ecology Group, Department of Animal SciencesWageningen University & ResearchThe Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Kappelhof
- Royal Rotterdam Zoological & Botanical GardensRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Filipe Cunha
- Behavioral Ecology Group, Department of Animal SciencesWageningen University & ResearchThe Netherlands
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3
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Erzinçlioğlu TS, Rutherford KMD. Using qualitative behavior assessment to investigate the effect of tourist presence on the welfare in captive tigers (Panthera tigris) in three tourism facilities in Thailand. Zoo Biol 2024; 43:42-54. [PMID: 37746904 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Numerous facilities around the world offer tourists interactive experiences with captive tigers. Yet, the animal welfare implications of this practice have not been widely studied. This study aimed to investigate whether qualitative behavioral assessment (QBA) could: (i) provide a valid indicator of tiger's emotional state and (ii) be applied to assess whether unfamiliar human presence with hand-raised captive tigers had an impact on the emotional state of those tigers. To investigate this, QBA was applied to video clips of hand-raised captive tigers from three sites (two offering unfamiliar human interaction, Sites A and C, and one retirement site with no direct interactions, Site B) in Thailand. QBA allows inferences to be made about animal emotion on the basis of descriptions of behavioral expression. Analysis, using a free choice profiling methodology, was provided by observers (N = 38) split between three groups; tiger keepers and vets from the Thai venues (n = 12), UK-based animal behavior MSc and vet students (n = 16), and international tiger keepers (n = 10). Tigers (N = 35) were split between Sites A (n = 7), B (n = 18), and C (n = 10) and filmed at three time points; morning (0800-0930 h); midday, (1130-1230 h); and evening, (1630-1830h) totaling 105 clips. Using generalized procrustes analysis, a consensus profile was calculated for each observer group. Two meaningful dimensions of behavioral expression, explaining 75.0% of the variation, were observed across these groups: Dimension 1 (D1: "active"/"interested"/"agitated" to "relaxed"/"calm"/"chilled-out") and Dimension 2 (D2: "bored"/"stressed"/"frustrated" to "relaxed"/"curious"/"interested"). There was clear agreement between the three observer groups in terms of tiger emotional expression along D1. However, agreement was more variable on D2. The behavioral expression on D1 was not significantly affected by site but was significantly affected by an interaction between age and time of day. Time of day also affected scores on D2, with the Thai observer group also showing an effect of site. During the midday period, when unfamiliar humans were present, all tiger age groups showed more positive behavioral expressions on D1 (lower scores: "relaxed"/"calm"/"chilled-out") and more negative behavioral expressions on D2 (higher scores: "bored"/"stressed"/"frustrated"), which could indicate that the presence of unfamiliar humans was a stressor. However, tigers in the retirement Site C also displayed similar behavioral expressions, which could indicate a deeper welfare issue. With further development, QBA could be used as part of a valid tool for long-term measurement of behavioral expression in captive tigers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya S Erzinçlioğlu
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- For Tigers, Cambridge, UK
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4
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Spiezio C, Galardi EG, Sandri C, Regaiolli B. Do not disturb: Visitors' effect on the behavior and welfare of female and male big cats in zoos. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:744-756. [PMID: 37283487 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The effect of visitor presence on animal behavior needs to be evaluated to ensure the welfare and improve the husbandry of the individuals in zoos. This study aims to assess the effect of visitor presence on the behavior and welfare of pairs of Amur tiger, snow leopard, and Eurasian lynx at Parco Natura Viva, Italy. The study was made of two periods: the baseline, in which the zoo was closed, and the visitor presence period, in which the zoo was opened. Per period and per subject 12 30-min observations were done. Continuous focal animal sampling method was used to collect behavior duration of the big cats. The main results of the study highlighted that, when visitors were present, all felids except for the female lynx were significantly more inactive than in the baseline. Moreover, despite interindividual and inter-species variability in the significance level of findings, natural behaviors such as attentive behavior, exploration/marking, locomotion, and positive social interactions were performed more in the baseline than in the visitor presence period. Finally, when visitors were present, as the studied subjects experienced daily longer exposure to visitors, inactivity increased whereas individual species-typical behaviors (e.g., locomotion) and positive social interactions decreased. Thus, visitors seem to partially alter the behavioral time-budgets of the study big cats, increasing inactivity and decreasing the performance of species-specific behavior, at least in some individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Spiezio
- Research & Conservation Department, Parco Natura Viva-Garda Zoological Park, Bussolengo, Italy
| | - Elena Giulia Galardi
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Camillo Sandri
- Research & Conservation Department, Parco Natura Viva-Garda Zoological Park, Bussolengo, Italy
- DISTAL, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Regaiolli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biologiche, Geologiche e Ambientali, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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5
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Ogle B, DeSmet A. The perception of felid welfare by zookeepers in North America and the implications for zoo managers. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:651-660. [PMID: 37128659 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Zookeepers working with felids were asked to complete an online survey to examine their perceptions of animal welfare. A total of 121 zookeepers in an AZA-accredited zoo completed the survey. Results from this study suggest that institutional offerings of professional development programming in animal welfare have the greatest potential to influence zookeeper perceptions of animal welfare. Participants also identified four areas of improvement for felid welfare, including 1) larger and more dynamic spaces, 2) increased attention to behavioral husbandry, 3) more unique diet presentations, and 4) the ability for the animal to remain out of the view of the public. In addition, there appear to be differences in perception between traditionally described "small cat" and "large cat" keepers in terms of the ability to deliver the Five Freedoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Ogle
- Department of Anthrozoology, Beacon College, Leesburg, Florida, USA
| | - Annabel DeSmet
- Department of Anthrozoology, Beacon College, Leesburg, Florida, USA
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Brereton JE, Jones EML, McMillan C, Perkins K. Visitors and observers otter-ly influence the behavior and enclosure use of zoo-housed giant otters. Zoo Biol 2023; 42:509-521. [PMID: 36705293 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The potential impact of human presence on captive animal behavior has recently been the focus of considerable research interest, especially following 2020 and 2021 periods of enforced closure as a result of COVID-19 opening restrictions. It is important to investigate whether human presence represents an enriching or stressful stimulus to a range of zoo-housed species. In 2020, during an easing of lockdown restrictions, investigations of the "visitor effect" and "observer effect" were carried out, using the giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) as a model species. To investigate the impact of both visitor and observer presence, otter behavior and space use was recorded for a pair of on-show and a pair of off-show otters. Observations were conducted using either a human observer, or cameras, allowing the researchers to investigate otter behavior when no one was present at the exhibits. The Electivity Index was used to assess the otters' use of four enclosure zones. Overall, otter behavior was significantly impacted by observer presence, though the impact of an observer differed between individual otters. Visitors had a minimal effect on otter enclosure use, whereas observers had a greater impact, whereby otters used their pools less frequently and houses more frequently when observers were present. However, this change in zone use differed between individuals, with more dominant otters tending to make use of indoor zones more often when observers were present. Zoos should consider the potential impact of human presence on their animals and use both behavior and space use when conducting their investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- James E Brereton
- University Centre Sparsholt, Westley Lane, Winchester, UK
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - Edward M L Jones
- University Centre Sparsholt, Westley Lane, Winchester, UK
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
| | - Connor McMillan
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
- New Forest Wildlife Park, Deerleap Lane, Southampton, UK
| | - Kerry Perkins
- University Centre Sparsholt, Westley Lane, Winchester, UK
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Southwell, UK
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7
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de Azevedo CS, Cipreste CF, Pizzutto CS, Young RJ. Review of the Effects of Enclosure Complexity and Design on the Behaviour and Physiology of Zoo Animals. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13081277. [PMID: 37106840 PMCID: PMC10135285 DOI: 10.3390/ani13081277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The complexity of the habitat refers to its physical geometry, which includes abiotic and biotic elements. Habitat complexity is important because it allows more species to coexist and, consequently, more interactions to be established among them. The complexity of the habitat links the physical structure of the enclosure to the biological interactions, which occur within its limits. Enclosure complexity should vary temporally, to be able to influence the animals in different ways, depending on the period of the day and season and throughout the year. In the present paper, we discuss how habitat complexity is important, and how it can positively influence the physical and mental states of zoo animals. We show how habitat complexity can ultimately affect educational projects. Finally, we discuss how we can add complexity to enclosures and, thus, make the lives of animals more interesting and functional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Schetini de Azevedo
- Departamento de Biodiversidade, Evolução e Meio Ambiente, Instituto de Ciências Exatas e Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Campus Morro do Cruzeiro, s/n Bauxita, Ouro Preto 35400-000, Brazil
| | | | - Cristiane Schilbach Pizzutto
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva, 87, Cidade Universitária Armando Salles de Oliveira, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil
| | - Robert John Young
- School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford Manchester, Peel Building-Room G51, Salford M5 4WT, UK
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8
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Wilson A, Phillips CJC. Behaviour and welfare of African lion ( Panthera leo) cubs used in contact wildlife tourism. Anim Welf 2023; 32:e34. [PMID: 38487433 PMCID: PMC10936262 DOI: 10.1017/awf.2023.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Lion (Panthera leo) cubs are used in wildlife interaction tourism but the effects on cub welfare are unknown. We assessed the behaviour of three cohorts of lion cubs, twelve animals in total, at three different interaction facilities, using continuous and scan-sampling methodologies for the entire duration of cub utilisation for human interactions. Cubs spent most time inactive (62%), particularly sleeping (38%), but also spent a substantial amount of time playing (13%) and being alert (12%). A generalised linear mixed model revealed that cub behaviour was similar in two facilities but different from cubs in the third. In these two similar facilities, as human interactions increased, the time spent resting, sleeping and playing with other cubs decreased, and alert behaviour, grooming of humans and flight responses increased. In the third facility, cubs had an abnormal activity budget, with high levels of inactivity (80%) accompanied by a lack of response to human interactions. We conclude that in some facilities normal cub behaviour cannot be achieved and may be compromised by a high frequency of human interactions, which therefore needs to be controlled to limit adverse effects on cub behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Wilson
- AW Applied Behavioural Ecology and Ecosystem Research Unit, Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida, South Africa
| | - Clive JC Phillips
- CJCP Estonian University of Life Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kreutzwalki 1, Tartu 51014, Estonia and Curtin University Sustainability Policy (CUSP) Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6845, Australia
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9
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Goswami S, Tyagi PC, Malik PK, Gupta BK. Effects of enclosure complexity and visitor presence on the welfare of Asiatic lions. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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10
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Radical A, Normando S, Ponzio P, Bono L, Macchi E. The effects of the addition of two environmental enrichments on the behavior and fecal cortisol levels of three small felids species (Caracal caracal, Leptailurus serval, Leopardus pardalis) in captivity. J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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11
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Rose P, Reed A, Hurn S, Badman-King A, Rice T. Does the sound environment influence the behaviour of zoo-housed birds? A preliminary investigation of ten species across two zoos. Behav Processes 2022; 203:104763. [DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2022.104763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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12
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Krebs BL, Eschmann CL, Watters JV. Dither: A unifying model of the effects of visitor numbers on zoo animal behavior. Zoo Biol 2022; 42:194-208. [PMID: 36161730 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Interest in the impact of human presence on the behavior and well-being of zoo and aquarium animals is increasing. Previous work has conceptualized the presence of zoo visitors as having one of three impacts on the behavior of animals in zoos: positive, negative, or neutral. Research suggests the same species may exhibit all three responses under different conditions, calling into question whether the positive/negative/neutral framework is the most useful way of considering visitor impact on animal behavior. Here we present a model of visitor effects that unifies these three predictions. Our model suggests that zoo-goers may provide a "dither effect" for some animals living in zoos. We posit animals may show nonlinear behavioral responses over a range of visitor densities, effectively exhibiting changes in both comfortable and anxiety-like behaviors under different levels of human presence. We tested this model during two COVID-19 related closures at the San Francisco Zoo, studying seven species for evidence of nonlinear relationships between visitor numbers and animal behavior. Our results support the dither effect acting in several species observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethany L Krebs
- San Francisco Zoological Society, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Jason V Watters
- San Francisco Zoological Society, San Francisco, California, USA
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13
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Green J, Jakins C, Asfaw E, Parker A, de Waal L, D'Cruze N. Welfare concerns associated with captive lions ( Panthera leo) and the implications for commercial lion farms in South Africa. Anim Welf 2022. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.31.2.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Breeding and housing wild animals in captive environments can pose challenges for their welfare. In South Africa, thousands of lions (Panthera leo) are bred and raised at commercial captive breeding facilities, so called 'lion farms', for use in tourism, trophy hunting and traditional
medicine. To gain a better understanding of the potential welfare challenges faced by lions on farms we reviewed 91 peer-reviewed articles relating to lion welfare, identified via a systematic review of the scientific literature. Across these studies, we identified 170 different terms relating
to negative behaviours and physical health afflictions. The majority of these terms were associated with disease and injury (124; 73%), followed by negative behaviours (19; 11%), negative mental experiences (15; 9%), nutritional concerns (7; 4%), and environmental challenges or discomfort
arising from the animal's surroundings (5; 3%). Of the 91 articles, 32 (35%) focused on data concerning captive lions. Only two studies focused specifically on data obtained from lion farms in South Africa, whilst the remainder reported on data collected from zoos, wildlife parks, sanctuaries,
game reserves and private ownership. Our preliminary review of the scientific literature draws attention to some of the challenges associated with caring for lions in captivity, and outlines the potential significance of these welfare challenges for commercial lion farms. Our data highlight
the apparent lack of scientific research involving captive lion welfare generally, particularly data collected at commercial breeding facilities in South Africa and the consequences this could have for the welfare of thousands of lions within the industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Green
- World Animal Protection, 222 Grayâ–™s Inn Rd, London WC1X 8HB, UK
| | - C Jakins
- Blood Lions NPC, PO Box 1154, Hermanus 7200, South Africa
| | - E Asfaw
- World Animal Protection, 222 Grayâ–™s Inn Rd, London WC1X 8HB, UK
| | - A Parker
- World Animal Protection, 222 Grayâ–™s Inn Rd, London WC1X 8HB, UK
| | - L de Waal
- Blood Lions NPC, PO Box 1154, Hermanus 7200, South Africa
| | - N D'Cruze
- Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, Recanati-Kaplan Centre, Tubney House, Abingdon Road, Tubney, Abingdon OX13 5QL, UK
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14
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Fink LB, Scarlata CD, VanBeek B, Bodner TE, Wielebnowski NC. Applying Behavioral and Physiological Measures to Assess the Relative Impact of the Prolonged COVID-19 Pandemic Closure on Two Mammal Species at the Oregon Zoo: Cheetah ( A. jubatus) and Giraffe ( G. c. reticulata and G. c. tippelskirchii). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3526. [PMID: 34944302 PMCID: PMC8698047 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The effect of visitor presence on zoo animals has been explored in numerous studies over the past two decades. However, the opportunities for observations without visitors have been very limited at most institutions. In 2020, the Oregon Zoo was closed, in response to the global SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic, from 15 March 2020 to 12 July 2020, resulting in approximately four consecutive months without visitor presence. This study aimed to quantify potential behavioral and hormonal changes expressed during two transition periods in zoo visitor attendance: the initial time period before and after closure in March 2020 and time before and after reopening in July 2020. Fecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGM) concentrations of resident giraffes (n = 2) and cheetahs (n = 2) were tracked using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) analyses. Average fGM concentrations during the two transition periods were compared using a two-way mixed ANOVA. Additionally, twice-weekly scan sampling was used to quantify behavioral observations across the transitions, which were analyzed as individual behavior proportions. Individual behavior proportions were compared across the Zoo's opening status and time of day using Kruskal-Wallis (H) tests. The results of our analyses showed the following outcomes: (1) significant increases in fGM concentrations for cheetahs and giraffes between the transition periods but not within them; (2) a significant increase in time spent 'not visible' in the cheetahs in the second transition period; and (3) increased vigilance behaviors in the giraffes immediately after the Zoo's closure. However, the changes observed in fGM concentrations may be more strongly correlated with concomitant social changes (giraffes) and some medical events (cheetahs) rather than with the Zoo's opening status. Nevertheless, this study was able to quantify differences in behavioral frequencies and fGM concentration in cheetahs and giraffes at the Oregon Zoo during the times of transition between visitor's presence and absence. The results indicate that, while there was a possible, but relatively minor impact of the presence and absence of visitors on some behaviors, the differences observed in fGM concentration may have been more affected by some of the concomitant social changes and medical events that happened during the same period than by the presence or absence of visitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel B. Fink
- Department of Biology, Portland State University, 1719 SW 10th Avenue, SRTC rm 246, Portland, OR 97201, USA
- Oregon Zoo, 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221, USA; (C.D.S.); (B.V.); (N.C.W.)
| | - Candace D. Scarlata
- Oregon Zoo, 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221, USA; (C.D.S.); (B.V.); (N.C.W.)
| | - Becca VanBeek
- Oregon Zoo, 4001 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221, USA; (C.D.S.); (B.V.); (N.C.W.)
| | - Todd E. Bodner
- Department of Psychology, Portland State University, 1721 SW Broadway, Cramer Hall rm 317, Portland, OR 97201, USA;
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Lawrence K, Sherwen SL, Larsen H. Natural Habitat Design for Zoo-Housed Elasmobranch and Teleost Fish Species Improves Behavioural Repertoire and Space Use in a Visitor Facing Exhibit. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102979. [PMID: 34679998 PMCID: PMC8532934 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Studies investigating whether a captive environment is meeting the needs of the species housed are relatively common among captive mammals. However, studies exploring fish behaviour in captive display enclosures are far less common in the scientific literature. Focusing on a small group of sharks, rays and smaller fish within a single display, our objectives were to; assess whether the behaviours of a select number of individual fishes within a single display are altered after the environment is enriched to enhance environmental complexity and visitor exposure is reduced, and also to increase our understanding of captive fish behaviour to improve capacity for evidence-based management decisions. In summary, increased environmental complexity and reduced visitor interaction showed correlations with increased expression of natural behaviours in all fish studied, including increased space use and decreased abnormal repetitive behaviours in some species. These results reflect a change toward more natural wild behavioural time budgets. Studying behaviour change in fish in different environmental conditions provides a good basis for evidence-based decision making. Abstract This study investigated the behaviour of two Elasmobranch species; Southern fiddler ray (Trygonorrhina dumerilii, n = 1) and Port Jackson shark (Heterodontus portusjacksoni, n = 4) and two teleost species; moonlighter (Tilodon sexfasciatus, n = 1) and banded morwong (Cheilodactylus spectabilis, n = 1) living within a single enclosure. For this study, two treatments were compared, the original enclosure design, and then after the enclosure had been renovated to more closely represent the species natural habitats, with a raised front viewing glass to prevent visitor interaction. Behaviours such as resting, swimming and abnormal behaviours such as surface and perimeter swimming (elasmobranchs only) were recorded as well as location within the enclosure, for 10 days pre and 10 days post renovation. The Port Jackson sharks significantly reduced the performance of abnormal behaviours after renovation, and significantly increased the time spent near the exhibit front. The Southern fiddler ray increased resting post renovation, while the teleost species also spent more time near the exhibit front. Although a small sample size was used, the results suggest that a more naturalistic environment with multiple micro-habitats and effective visitor barriers allows for a greater proportion of the day spent exhibiting natural behaviours, greater space use and reduced stereotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristie Lawrence
- Wild Sea, Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Sally L. Sherwen
- Wildlife Conservation and Science, Zoos Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; (S.L.S.); (H.L.)
| | - Hannah Larsen
- Wildlife Conservation and Science, Zoos Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia; (S.L.S.); (H.L.)
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Huskisson SM, Doelling CR, Ross SR, Hopper LM. Assessing the potential impact of zoo visitors on the welfare and cognitive performance of Japanese macaques. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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A Global Survey of Current Zoo Housing and Husbandry Practices for Fossa: A Preliminary Review. JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg2030028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The fossa is a specialized Malagasy carnivore housed in ex situ facilities since the late 19th century. Moderate breeding success has occurred since the 1970s, and welfare issues (notably stereotypic pacing behaviour) are commonly documented. To understand challenges relating to fossa housing and husbandry (H&H) across global facilities and to identify areas of good practice that dovetail with available husbandry standards, a survey was distributed to ZIMS-registered zoos in 2017. Results showed that outdoor housing area and volume varied greatly across facilities, the majority of fossa expressed unnatural behaviours, with pacing behaviour the most frequently observed. All fossa received enrichment, and most had public access restricted to one or two sides of the enclosure. The majority of fossa were locked in/out as part of their daily management and forty-one percent of the fossa surveyed as breeding individuals bred at the zoo. Dense cover within an enclosure, restricted public viewing areas, a variable feeding schedule and limited view of another species from the fossa exhibit appear to reduce the risk of unnatural behavior being performed. The achievement of best practice fossa husbandry may be a challenge due to its specialized ecology, the limited wild information guiding captive care, and the range of housing dimensions and exhibit features provided by zoos that makes identification of standardized practices difficult. We recommended that holders evaluate how and when enrichment is provided and assess what they are providing for environmental complexity as well as consider how the public views their fossa.
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Goswami S, Patel SK, Kadivar R, Tyagi PC, Malik PK, Mondol S. Effects of a combined enrichment intervention on the behavioural and physiological welfare of captive Asiatic lions (Panthera leo persica). Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Widespread Behavioral Responses by Mammals and Fish to Zoo Visitors Highlight Differences between Individual Animals. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10112108. [PMID: 33203018 PMCID: PMC7697811 DOI: 10.3390/ani10112108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The impact that humans have on zoo animals can vary based on the species of animal, exhibit design, and individual differences in behavioral responses. We independently analyzed data from 10 never-published studies that examined the impact of zoo visitors on zoo animal behavior. Of the 16 species studied, 90.9% of the mammal species and 60.0% of the fish species demonstrated a change in at least one behavior based on zoo visitor abundance or visitor behavior (e.g., noise, solicitation of interactions from zoo animals). In addition, behavioral changes associated with zoo visitors were present in animals housed in exhibits where there was direct contact with zoo visitors, as well as in exhibits where there was indirect contact and no direct contact. Individuals often varied in their behavioral responses, and some individuals appeared to seek out interactions with visitors. Our findings demonstrate that short-term research projects can provide valuable insight into individual animal-level and species-level responses to visitor abundance and visitor behavior in the zoo setting. We recommend that behavioral assessments focus on the analysis of behaviors of individual animals whenever possible, and we recommend that exhibits provide areas that allow for animals to retreat from the public view.
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Chiapero F, Ferrari HR, Prieto MV, García Capocasa MC, Busso JM. Multivariate Analyses of the Activity Pattern and Behavior of the Lesser Anteater on Open and Closed Days at Córdoba Zoo, Argentina. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2020; 24:83-97. [PMID: 32723195 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2020.1799214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The human factor is one of the major determinants of animal welfare in zoos. Assessing changes in activity patterns, behavior and space use due to human presence might help understanding visitors' influence on these animal welfare indicators. In Córdoba (Argentina), we assessed the activity pattern and behavior of Tamandua tetradactyla (lesser anteaters; n = 5) during natural light/dark phases and the animals' use of space. We analyzed responses of lesser anteaters to humans in days open to the public (Sundays and Tuesdays) and days closed to the public (Mondays), collecting data at 5-minute intervals during 12 days, for each animal. Data were analyzed at two temporal scales: a 24 h period and visiting hours. Multivariate analyses showed no differences in activity pattern, behavior and space use among days, exhibiting a consistent response of each individual over the studied days. Principal Component Analysis showed differences between female and male behaviors. Based on these results, the visitor effect on these lesser anteaters would appear to be neutral, indicating that the presence of visitors is at most, a minor concern in the housing and management of these individuals in Córdoba Zoo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florencia Chiapero
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (IIBYT), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales (FCEFyN)-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC) , Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Héctor Ricardo Ferrari
- Cátedra de Bienestar Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de Buenos Aires , Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Valentina Prieto
- Carrera de Veterinaria, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Católica de Córdoba , Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - Juan Manuel Busso
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (IIBYT), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)- Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales (FCEFyN)-Universidad Nacional de Córdoba (UNC) , Córdoba, Argentina.,FCEFyN-UNC , Córdoba, Argentina.,Laboratorio de Técnicas No Invasivas, CONICET-Jardín Zoológico Córdoba , Córdoba, Argentina
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Sherwen SL, Hemsworth PH. The Visitor Effect on Zoo Animals: Implications and Opportunities for Zoo Animal Welfare. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9060366. [PMID: 31212968 PMCID: PMC6617010 DOI: 10.3390/ani9060366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Revised: 06/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Research has shown that an animal’s welfare is highly dependent on how various individual animal factors (e.g., species traits, genetics, temperament and previous experience) interact with environmental features (e.g., social grouping, enclosure design and sensory environment). One prominent feature of a zoo’s environment is the presence of visitors. Decades of research on the visitor effect in zoos has demonstrated that visitors can have negative, neutral or positive impacts on zoo animal behaviour and welfare. This paper reviews the literature on the implications and potential opportunities of human–zoo animal interactions on animal behaviour and welfare, with the aim of stimulating interest, understanding and exploration of this important subject. Abstract Achieving and maintaining high standards of animal welfare is critical to the success of a modern zoo. Research has shown that an animal’s welfare is highly dependent on how various individual animal factors (e.g., species traits, genetics, temperament and previous experience) interact with environmental features (e.g., social grouping, enclosure design and sensory environment). One prominent feature of the zoo environment is the presence of visitors. Visitor contact can be unpredictable and intense, particularly in terms of auditory and visual interaction. Depending on an animal’s perception of this interaction, visitors can have either negative, neutral or positive impacts on zoo animal behaviour and welfare. This paper reviews the literature on the implications and potential opportunities of human-zoo animal interactions on animal behaviour and welfare, with the aim of stimulating interest, understanding and exploration of this important subject. The literature to date presents a mixed range of findings on the topic. It is possible this variation in the responses of zoo animals to visitors may be due to species-specific differences, the nature and intensity of the visitor interactions, enclosure design, and individual animal characteristics. Analysing these studies and better understanding animal preferences and motivations can provide insight into what animals find negatively and positively reinforcing in terms of visitor contact in a specific zoo setting. This understanding can then be applied to either safeguard welfare in cases where visitors can have a negative impact, or, conversely, it can be applied to highlight opportunities to encourage animal-visitor interaction in situations where animals experience positive emotions associated with visitor interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally L Sherwen
- Wildlife Conservation and Science, Zoos Victoria, Victoria, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
- The Animal Welfare Science Centre, the University of Melbourne, Victoria, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
| | - Paul H Hemsworth
- The Animal Welfare Science Centre, the University of Melbourne, Victoria, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
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Rose PE, Brereton JE, Croft DP. Measuring welfare in captive flamingos: Activity patterns and exhibit usage in zoo-housed birds. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2018.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
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