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- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 300-315: Analysis of Circulating Fatty Acid Profiles
in Free-Ranging and Managed Care Marine Toads (Rhinella marina) with a
Comparison of Whole-Blood Vial and Whole-Blood Dried Blood Spot Card
Analyses
Authors: Melissa L. Witt, Larry J. Minter, Troy N. Tollefson, Frank Ridgley, Kimberly Treiber, Dustin Smith, Doug Bibus, Heather Scott, Kimberly Ange-van Heugten
First page: 300
Abstract: This study provides novel data on circulating concentrations of whole-blood fatty acids (FAs) in marine toads (Rhinella marina) via dried blood spot (DBS) card technology as a potential amphibian model species. Free-ranging (n = 10) animals were compared to managed populations fed two diet strategies for 60 days (n = 6 per diet). Thirty-six individual FAs were analyzed, with 28 found in significant reportable quantities. Eight FA groupings were represented. Traditional whole-blood vial (WBV) FA percentages were also collected and compared to DBS after managed care for 60 days. Results showed eleven individual FAs and four FA groups were higher in free-ranging toads (n = 10; p ≤ 0.05), while three FAs and three groups were higher in managed care (n = 12; p ≤ 0.05). FA concentrations compared between DBS cards and WBV at day 60 generally agreed, although two individual FAs and one grouping were higher in DBS (p ≤ 0.05). When free-ranging FAs were analyzed by sex, four individual FAs and two groupings were higher in females, while four individual FAs and one grouping were higher in males. Understanding normal FA circulating levels and how husbandry changes them may impact amphibian health. Additionally, DBS cards may provide a convenient sampling tool for fieldwork.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-06-27
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3030024
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 3 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 316-327: Is Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) Wounding
Frequency Affected by the Presence Versus Absence of Visitors' A
Multi-Institutional Study
Authors: Robin Elana Salak, Christina Cloutier Barbour
First page: 316
Abstract: Visitor effect studies have had inconsistent results, due in part to the inability to control for all confounding variables such as time of day, seasonal weather patterns, and so forth. This study represents the first instance where chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) wounding frequencies were investigated across extensive time periods in the presence and complete absence of visitors, thus eliminating many visitor-related variables. Additional variables were eliminated through the zoo selection process, based on institutional responses to a 29-question survey, providing a novel approach to the question of visitor effects. The aim of this study was to determine if visitors were associated with a change in chimpanzee wound event frequencies across four 51-day time conditions, three of which occurred prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and one during the first wave of pandemic-related zoo closures. We analyzed the archival records of 21 chimpanzees housed at three U.S. zoos. Due to the small number of wound events across all study windows, frequencies of “no wound” events were analyzed. A chi-square goodness of fit test was performed to determine whether the frequency of “no wound” events was equal between the “open” and “closed” trials. Results indicate that the frequencies did not differ, suggesting that chimpanzee welfare, as it relates to wounding, may not be adversely affected by zoo visitors.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-07-01
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3030025
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 3 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 147-157: Does Observer Presence Modify the Behavior
and Enclosure Use of Captive Edwards’ Pheasants'
Authors: Rhiannon Amy Hoy, James Edward Brereton
First page: 147
Abstract: It is well known that captive animals alter their behavior and space use when observed by visitors, with the concept coined the ‘visitor effect’. The ‘observer effect’, described as any alteration in behavior and enclosure use as a result of a quiet, stationary observer, has been less studied. This study investigates the observer effect in two pairs of Edwards’ pheasants (Lophura edwardsi) and their offspring at Sparsholt College, United Kingdom. The impact of an observer (as opposed to camera) on behavior and enclosure use of pheasants was observed, using instantaneous focal sampling. Enclosure use was measured by converting both enclosures into unequal zones and then assessing the evenness of enclosure use through modified Spread of Participation Index. Poisson regression analysis was used to investigate observer impact, alongside the additional variables of keeper and visitor presence, temperature, and individual bird differences. Overall, the behaviors of resting and clustering were significantly increased during observer presence, whereas feeding and locomotion were significantly decreased. The behaviors of preening and standing were not affected by observer presence, though they were influenced by keeper and visitor presence. Enclosure use was also affected by observer presence, though the effect size was small. This suggests that pheasants may perceive the presence of humans near their enclosures as a potential threat, and may alter their behavior to reduce detection, similar to their wild counterparts. Animal researchers should consider the potential impact of observer presence on their subjects, particularly when observing species such as pheasants.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-04-07
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020012
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 158-169: Does Handling for Public Talks in Zoos Affect
the Behaviour of Captive Mexican Red-Kneed Spiders Brachypelma
hamorii'
Authors: Charlotte Gresham, Fiona Mathews, Amanda Ferguson, Jamie Mitchell, Lisa Clifforde, Dave Clarke, Lewis J. Rowden
First page: 158
Abstract: Zoos include invertebrates in visitor interaction sessions to educate and spread conservation messages to the public. Yet, the welfare implications of these encounters on invertebrates are unstudied. Empirical studies reveal negative effects of handling on vertebrate species, thus providing reason to investigate impacts on invertebrates. Mexican red-kneed spiders Brachypelma hamorii are regularly handled by keepers for public talks at the Zoological Society of London, London Zoo. This study investigates whether handling affects the spiders’ 24-h activity and enclosure usage. Three spiders were filmed under infrared light for 24 h following being handled, and on control (no-handling) days. The proportion of time that spiders spent under cover or exhibiting locomotion, limb-interaction, and object-interaction behaviour was recorded using instantaneous scan sampling. The spiders spent, on average, significantly more time under cover (7.8% increase) and exhibited significantly more limb-interaction behaviour (1.4% increase) on handling days. Handling for public talks therefore affects the behaviour and enclosure use of these captive Brachypelma hamorii. Although it is not yet possible to infer welfare implications, the presence of these behavioral responses suggests that protocols to monitor the behaviour of invertebrates following handling should be developed, and further behavioral studies are warranted to validate potential stress indices.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-04-11
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020013
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 170-176: A Giraffe in the Botanic Garden of Pisa
(Tuscany, Northern Italy)
Authors: Gianni Bedini, Simone Farina
First page: 170
Abstract: The Botanic Garden of Pisa was established in 1543 as a teaching tool and research facility. As with the vast majority of its sister institutions, it focuses on plant collections. However, for a short time in the first half of the XIX century, the Botanic Garden exhibited a living giraffe, a cow, and a calf. Due to the transient nature of the exhibition, it could have easily gone unnoticed but for the fortuitous representation of the animals in a drawing of the same period and for sparse notes archived in the libraries of Pisa University. Furthermore, a XIX-century publication on the morphological and behavioural traits of three antelopes indirectly suggests that those animals had been kept in the Botanic Garden for research purposes. This paper presents the evidence of the living animal display in the Botanic Garden of Pisa and the context in which it was collected.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-04-12
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020014
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 177-183: Impact of Broad-Spectrum Lighting on Recall
Behaviour in a Pair of Captive Blue-Throated Macaws (Ara glaucogularis)
Authors: Zoe Bryant, Eva Konczol, Christopher J. Michaels
First page: 177
Abstract: Many birds, including macaws, are highly visual animals able to detect a wide band of light wavelengths ranging into ultraviolet A, but in captivity, full-spectrum lighting is not universally employed. Where purpose-made bird lighting is used, this is typically made with the provision of ultraviolet B radiation and vitamin D3 synthesis in mind. Limited research in this field suggests behavioural and physiological benefits of broad-spectrum lighting provision, but more work is needed to broaden the taxonomic scope and to investigate its impacts on understudied areas of husbandry, including behavioural management. We compared the duration of time a bonded pair of blue-throated macaws at ZSL London Zoo opted to remain in an inside den after being recalled from an outdoors flight aviary, with and without the presence of artificial lighting in the form of High Output T5 Fluorescent lamps, which are rich in UVA and UVB wavelengths as well as those visible to humans. We hypothesized that the birds would remain inside for longer when T5 lighting was on, as they would be more visually comfortable. Using randomization analyses, we show that, over 54 trials split between winter and spring, the mean duration spent inside after recall increased from 81.04 to 515.13 s with the presence of the lighting unit, which was highly statistically significant. Our results are likely to be explained by much higher visibility of indoor surroundings creating a more hospitable indoor environment for the birds and will have implications for captive macaw management.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-04-13
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020015
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 184-197: Baseline Behavioral Data and Behavioral
Authors: Jemma E. Dias, Charlotte Ellis, Tessa E. Smith, Charlotte A. Hosie, Benjamin Tapley, Christopher J. Michaels
First page: 184
Abstract: Animal behavior and welfare science can form the basis of zoo animal management. However, even basic behavioral data are lacking for the majority of amphibian species, and species-specific research is required to inform management. Our goal was to develop the first ethogram for the critically endangered frog Xenopus longipes through observation of a captive population of 24 frogs. The ethogram was applied to produce a diurnal activity budget and to measure the behavioral impact of a routine health check where frogs were restrained. In the activity budget, frogs spent the vast majority of time swimming, resting in small amounts of time devoted to feeding, foraging, breathing, and (in males) amplexus. Using linear mixed models, we found no effect of time of day or sex on baseline behavior, other than for breathing, which had a greater duration in females. Linear mixed models indicated significant effects of the health check on duration of swimming, resting, foraging, feeding, and breathing behaviors for all frogs. This indicates a welfare trade-off associated with veterinary monitoring and highlights the importance of non-invasive monitoring where possible, as well as providing candidates for behavioral monitoring of acute stress. This investigation has provided the first behavioral data for this species which can be applied to future research regarding husbandry and management practices.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-04-19
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020016
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 198-222: Bird Welfare in Zoos and Aquariums: General
Insights across Industries
Authors: Jocelyn M. Woods, Adrienne Eyer, Lance J. Miller
First page: 198
Abstract: Animal welfare is a priority across accredited zoological institutions; however, historically, research has been prioritized for mammals. Bird-focused studies accounted for less than 10% of welfare research in zoos and aquariums over the last ten years. Due to the lack of scientific publications on bird welfare, zoo scientists and animal practitioners can look to other industries such as agriculture, laboratories, and companion animal research for insight. This qualitative review highlights findings across industries to inform animal care staff and scientists on the welfare needs of birds within zoos and aquariums. Specifically, the review includes an overview of research on different topics and a summary of key findings across nine resources that affect bird welfare. We also highlight areas where additional research is necessary. Future welfare research in zoos and aquariums should prioritize studies that consider a diversity of bird species across topics and work to identify animal-based measures with empirical evidence. Moving forward, research from other industries can help develop innovative research on bird welfare within zoos and aquariums.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-05-05
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020017
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 223-237: Behaviour of Zoo-Housed Red Pandas (Ailurus
fulgens): A Case-Study Testing the Behavioural Variety Index
Authors: Caterina Spiezio, Mariangela Altamura, Janno Weerman, Barbara Regaiolli
First page: 223
Abstract: The red panda is listed as “endangered” in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, due to the rapid population decline. Improving our knowledge on the red panda biology and ethology is necessary to enhance its husbandry and breeding in zoos. Behavioural variety, intended as the presence of a wide array of species-specific behaviour, has been considered a positive welfare index in zoo-housed animals. The aim of this study was to describe the behaviour of two pairs of zoo-housed red pandas, one of them with an offspring, and to investigate the behavioural variability using the Behavioural Variety Index (BVI). Behavioural data from two zoo-living male–female pairs were collected. A continuous focal animal sampling method was used to collect individual and social behaviours of the two pairs. Forty-eight 30 min sessions per subject were carried out. For the BVI, a list of species-specific behaviours previously reported in the red panda was prepared and compared with the behavioural repertoire of the subjects of the study. First, species-specific behaviours were recorded, and no abnormal behaviour was reported. The percentages of time spent on different activities (e.g., routine behaviours, exploratory/territorial behaviours, consumption behaviours, locomotive behaviours, social behaviours, maternal behaviours) were similar to time budgets reported in the red panda, with routine behaviours (resting, comfort and vigilance) being the most performed in both pairs. Moreover, the BVI suggested that each red panda performed on average 73% of the behaviours described in previous literature on this species. In conclusion, studying the behavioural variety of red pandas in zoos can be a useful tool for assessing their welfare as well as improving our knowledge on the behavioural repertoire of a species that is difficult to observe in the wild.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-05-13
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020018
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 238-245: Seasonal Pattern in Serum Estradiol,
Progesterone, and Prolactin Concentrations in Rescued Wild Female
Taiwanese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla pentadactyla)
Authors: Bharti Arora, Kurtis Jai-Chyi Pei, Andre Ganswindt
First page: 238
Abstract: Pangolins are under severe threat of surging poaching rates globally; therefore, there is a demand to ascertain reproductive measures to ensure captive breeding and management strategies. Due to the absence of substantial information on the pangolin, endocrinology and reproductive physiology studies around the globe are merely based on captive observations that have failed to report the chronographs and hormonal cyclicity of the reproductive events. This study attempts to evaluate the annual pattern of reproductive steroids (estradiol-17β and progesterone) and prolactin in 16 wild female Taiwanese pangolins rehabilitated by Pingtung Rescue Center of Endangered Wild Animals, Taiwan. Novel immunoassays, i.e., chemiluminometric assays, have been used to quantify the serum reproductive steroids and contribute to a better understanding of the endocrine correlates of function in the Taiwanese pangolin. The hematological findings were characterized by monthly median concentration. The circulating reproductive hormones demonstrated seasonal reproductive activity by confirming a peak in serum estradiol concentrations in December and considerably higher progesterone concentrations in November/December, and March/April. The rise in prolactin in December and peak values in April suggest participation in the ovulatory process and mating. Collectively, these findings can help maximize the reproductive efficiency of pangolin species in captivity, i.e., by timely pairing and prioritizing the care of the breeding pairs to optimize breeding efforts and, therefore, effectively support conservation breeding programs and restore the natural population in the ecosystems.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-05-28
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020019
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 246-255: Location, Location, Location! Evaluating
Space Use of Captive Aquatic Species—A Case Study with Elasmobranchs
Authors: Alexis M. Hart, Zac Reynolds, Sandra M. Troxell-Smith
First page: 246
Abstract: The space use of captive animals has been reliably used as a tool to measure animal welfare in recent years. However, most analyses of space use focus primarily on terrestrial animals, with very little emphasis placed on the space use of aquatic animals. By comparing the space use of these animals to their natural histories and what would be expected of them physiologically, a general assessment of their overall welfare can be obtained. Using the Zoomonitor program, this study investigated the space use of five elasmobranch species housed in a captive aquatic environment: a blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus), a nurse shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum), a smooth dogfish (Musteluscanis), a bonnethead shark (Sphyrna tiburo), and a blacknose shark (Carcharhinus acronotus). The exhibit was delineated into five different zones: three represented the animal locations along the X/Y axis (‘Exhibit Use’), and two zones were related to the Z-axis (‘Depth Use’). The location of each individual on both the X/Y and Z axes was recorded during each observation. Heat maps generated from the Zoomonitor program were used in conjunction with the Spread of Participation Index (SPI) to interpret the data. It was found that while all the individuals used their given space differently, the Exhibit Use was relatively even overall (the SPI values ranged from 0.0378 to 0.367), while the Depth Use was more uneven (the SPI ranged from 0.679 to 0.922). These results mostly reflected what would be expected based on the species’ natural histories. However, for the smooth dogfish, the observed Exhibit Use and activity patterns revealed a mismatch between the anticipated and the actual results, leading to further interventions. As demonstrated here, space use results can be utilized to make positive changes to husbandry routines and enclosure designs for aquatic individuals; they are thus an important additional welfare measure to consider for aquatic species.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-06-07
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020020
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 256-270: Behavioral Changes of Brown Bears (Ursus
arctos) during COVID-19 Zoo Closures and Further Reopening to the Public
Authors: Aleksei A. Podturkin
First page: 256
Abstract: Visitor effect studies have been of keen interest for decades, but there have been only anecdotal opportunities to investigate the impact of the prolonged absence of visitors on animal welfare in zoos. In some zoos, bears are actively involved in animal–visitors interaction through begging, which gives them some degree of control over gaining food rewards throughout the day when visitors are present. Prolonged visitor absence may, therefore, represent a loss of control and have a negative impact on the bears’ welfare. In this study, we investigate the behavior of four brown bears (Ursus arctos) in three zoos to see how the animals’ behavior changed depending on the presence and absence of the public during zoo closures in 2020 related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The bears’ behavior was assessed using activity budget analysis and novel object tests. The results showed that the bears behavior varied between facilities and that there was no effect of visitor presence for the individuals who had access to indoor holding space. The results of the study are discussed in terms of choice and control and their impact on the wellbeing of bears in zoos.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-06-11
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020021
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 271-288: Communication from the Zoo: Reports from
Zoological Facilities of the Impact of COVID-19 Closures on Animals
Authors: Violet Hunton, Jessica Rendle, Anne Carter, Ellen Williams
First page: 271
Abstract: Zoos engaged in a range of communication types with prospective visitors during the temporary closures necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study sought to (1) investigate social media reports and public responses to zoo-animal-related posts over a one-year period during COVID-19 lockdowns; (2) understand the use of reporting language in news articles concerning animal responses during zoo closures, and to investigate whether this differed across species; and (3) investigate how keepers perceived general animal behavior, and how they perceived animal behavior in keeper–animal interactions, during the COVID-19 facility closures. Data were collected from BIAZA-accredited zoos’ Facebook pages (March 2020 to March 2021) and news reports (Google search outputs from 20 March to 5 April 2021). Keeper perceptions were captured via questionnaires (May to August 2021). Data were collected on taxa, the reported behavioral changes and the language used in media communications. In Facebook posts and news reports, mammals were more frequently represented than was expected (p < 0.05). Behavioral responses were more frequently negative (p < 0.05) and less frequently positive or neutral (p < 0.05). Keepers reported overall behavioral changes, as well as changes during their own interactions with animals. On Facebook, mammals were described using a combination of behavioral descriptions and anthropomorphic terms, which were used more frequently than was expected (p < 0.05). In the news reports concerning primate species, anthropomorphic descriptions were used more frequently than expected (p < 0.05), while behavioral descriptions were used less frequently than expected (p < 0.05). The reports regarding the Carnivora were the reverse of this. This study enabled an understanding of the impact of the temporary closures on the animals, and how this impact was communicated to the public. The findings may reflect the relationships that humans have with animals and the need for communication methods that will capture visitors’ interest and induce empathy with the various species.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-06-15
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020022
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 289-299: The More the Merrier' Zoo Visitors’
Affective Responses and Perceptions of Welfare across an Increase in
Giraffe Density
Authors: Wilson C. Sherman, Darren E. Minier, Caterina N. Meyers, Michelle L. Myers
First page: 289
Abstract: Zoos strive to create experiences that inspire positive feelings toward animals which lead to conservation behaviors in their visitors. However, concerns regarding the welfare of animals living in zoos present a challenge in creating positive zoo experiences and promoting the conservation agenda and moral authority of these cultural institutions. This research explores connections between zoo visitors’ positive affective responses and their assessments of animal welfare before and after two giraffes were introduced to a group of four giraffes in a multi-species savannah exhibit. A self administered questionnaire was completed by 499 visitors to the Conservation Society of California’s Oakland Zoo. The questionnaire measured visitors’ predispositions, affective responses, and assessments of animal welfare. Results suggest that visitors’ assessments of animal welfare, positive affective experience, and predisposition are positively correlated. Further, visitor assessments of animal welfare are generally more positive after the addition of new giraffes. Although visitors tended to report that the giraffes were very healthy and well cared for, they responded less positively when asked about how happy the giraffes were and how adequately sized their exhibit was. The findings suggest that understanding and improving zoo visitors’ assessments of animal welfare is important in improving positive experiences and conservation education outcomes during a visit to the zoo.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-06-15
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020023
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 2 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 19-31: Assessment of Feeding Behavior of the
Zoo-Housed Lesser Anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla) and Nutritional Values
of Natural Prey
Authors: Valentín Zárate, Jesica R. Mufari, Lucía G. Abalos Luna, Daniel P. Villarreal, Juan M. Busso
First page: 19
Abstract: Very little information is available to zoo managers on the nutritional preferences of the lesser anteater, a highly specialized predator. By studying lesser anteater feeding behavior, we expect to contribute to improved management decisions and individual welfare experiences. We studied the response of zoo-housed lesser anteaters (n = 7) to feeders with live ants (Acromyrmex lundi) and termites (Cortaritermes fulviceps), and we also evaluated the nutritional values of these prey. We individually evaluated each lesser anteater (3 sessions), recording activities by camera. We ground insect samples into a coarse meal and evaluated in vitro biochemical parameters (humidity, lipids proteins, ash, and carbohydrates). Lesser anteaters spent more time with termites than with ants and consumed more termites. Ant meal presented a higher protein and lipid content than termite meal (35.28 ± 0.18% vs. 18.19 ± 0.34% and 16.95 ± 0.13% vs. 6.54 ± 0.31%, respectively), and carbohydrate digestibility was higher in termites. These findings indicate an association between the level of insect consumption and nutritional and digestibility values. This is the first exploration of lesser anteater responses to the presence of social insects in feeders and may serve to guide the study of food preferences in captivity.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-01-05
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010002
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 32-43: Overlooked and Under-Studied: A Review of
Evidence-Based Enrichment in Varanidae
Authors: Darcy Howard, Marianne Sarah Freeman
First page: 32
Abstract: Enrichment has become a key aspect of captive husbandry practices as a means of improving animal welfare by increasing environmental stimuli. However, the enrichment methods that are most effective varies both between and within species, and thus evaluation underpins successful enrichment programs. Enrichment methods are typically based upon previously reported successes and those primarily with mammals, with one of the main goals of enrichment research being to facilitate predictions about which methods may be most effective for a particular species. Yet, despite growing evidence that enrichment is beneficial for reptiles, there is limited research on enrichment for Varanidae, a group of lizards known as monitor lizards. As a result, it can be difficult for keepers to implement effective enrichment programs as time is a large limiting factor. In order for appropriate and novel enrichment methods to be created, it is necessary to understand a species’ natural ecology, abilities, and how they perceive the world around them. This is more difficult for non-mammalian species as the human-centered lens can be a hinderance, and thus reptile enrichment research is slow and lagging behind that of higher vertebrates. This review discusses the physiological, cognitive, and behavioral abilities of Varanidae to suggest enrichment methods that may be most effective.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-01-17
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010003
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 44-55: Environmental Enrichment Factors Associated
with the Activity Level of Bottlenose Dolphins under Professional Care
Authors: Lisa K. Lauderdale, Kenneth Alex Shorter, Ding Zhang, Joaquin Gabaldon, Jill D. Mellen, Douglas A. Granger, Michael T. Walsh, Lance J. Miller
First page: 44
Abstract: Environmental enrichment can be used to improve the welfare of dolphins in zoos and aquariums. Bottlenose dolphins under professional care are typically provided with a range of enrichment that has a variety of features and levels of complexity at various frequencies. In the present study, a subset of data from a larger study entitled “Towards understanding the welfare of cetaceans in zoos and aquariums” (colloquially called the Cetacean Welfare Study) was used to examine the relationship between activity level and enrichment buoyancy as well as enrichment provisioning schedules. Survey data were collected from accredited zoos and aquariums related to the types of enrichment provided to the dolphins and the frequency and duration they were supplied. Non-invasive bio-logging devices were used to record the dolphin kinematics one day per week over the course of two five-week data collection periods. Activity level related positively with the total duration of time non-stationary enrichment was provided. In addition, providing a larger number of enrichment types each between 26% and 50% of the days in a month (i.e., rotating many different types of enrichment across days on a moderate schedule) was positively related to activity level. Activity level was negatively related to the number of times sinking enrichment was provided. Understanding how the temporal schedule and features of various types of enrichment are related to activity levels will aid in developing progressively more effective enrichment programs.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-01-21
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010004
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 56-68: Environmental Education in Zoos—Exploring
the Impact of Guided Zoo Tours on Connection to Nature and Attitudes
towards Species Conservation
Authors: Matthias Winfried Kleespies, Viktoria Feucht, Martin Becker, Paul Wilhelm Dierkes
First page: 56
Abstract: In recent decades, zoos have been increasingly transformed into education centers with the goal of raising awareness about environmental issues and providing environmental education. Probably the simplest and most widespread environmental education program in the zoo is the guided tour. This study therefore aims to test whether a one hour zoo tour has an influence on the participants’ connection to nature and attitude towards species conservation. For this purpose, 269 people who had voluntarily registered for a zoo tour were surveyed before and after the tour. In addition to the regular zoo tour, special themed tours and tours with animal feedings were included. The results show a positive increase in connection to nature and a strengthening of positive attitudes towards species conservation for all tour types. For nature connectedness, in particular, people with an initial high connection to nature benefitted from the special themed tours and the tours, including animal feedings. For attitudes towards species conservation, no difference was found between the tour types. The results prove the positive influence of a very simple environmental education program, even for people with a preexisting high level of connection to nature and positive attitude towards species conservation.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-02-04
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010005
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 69-70: Acknowledgment to Reviewers of Journal of
Zoological and Botanical Gardens in 2021
Authors: JZBG Editorial Office JZBG Editorial Office
First page: 69
Abstract: Rigorous peer-reviews are the basis of high-quality academic publishing [...]
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-02-09
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010006
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 71-88: Do Birds of a Feather Always Flock
Together' Assessing Differences in Group and Individual Zoo Enclosure
Usage by Comparing Commonly Available Methods
Authors: Heather McConnell, James Brereton, Tom Rice, Paul Rose
First page: 71
Abstract: Data on zoo enclosure usage provide meaningful evaluation of husbandry and welfare but for social species, group-level data may not capture individual occupancy preferences. Determining zone occupancy using group data may give an inaccurate assessment of enclosure suitability for each individual. We compared three formulae (traditional and modified Spread of Participation Index and Electivity Index) to determine how estimations of space usage compare between individuals and their group overall. Two flamingo flocks at two zoos were sampled with enclosures separated into discrete zones. Counts of where each bird in the flock was located at each minute of sampling were compared against the number of minutes that randomly selected individual flamingos spent in each zone. Overall, there was little difference in preferred zone occupancy when flock data were compared to individual data. Group data suggested that flamingos were more consistent in their enclosure usage, with individual data showing wider overall usage of enclosures. Individual Electivity Index (EI) values suggested zone underuse whereas group EI suggested zone overuse. As a proxy for welfare measurement, we recommend both group-level and individual monitoring of space use to provide a complete picture of how individuals within a social group occupy their space and choose where to be.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-02-23
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010007
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 89-101: Epidemiology of Traumatic Tusk Fractures of
Managed Elephants in North America, South America, Europe, Asia and
Australia
Authors: Josephine B. Rose, Austin Leeds, Rachel LeMont, Linda M. Yang, Melissa A. Fayette, Jeffry S. Proudfoot, Michelle R. Bowman, Allison Woody, James Oosterhuis, David A. Fagan
First page: 89
Abstract: Elephant tusk fractures are a management and medical challenge that can escalate into life-threatening complications. Here, an international survey was sent to elephant managers to understand the risk factors associated with tusk fractures since 2009, identifying best practices for reducing the incidence. Out of 459 elephants included in the survey, 85 elephants incurred at least one fracture. Though not statistically significant, descriptive statistics identified a trend for both Asian and African elephant males to be more likely to incur a fracture than females. Additionally, the first reported fracture occurred in males of both species approximately ten years earlier in age than females. The most common causes of fractures were conspecific interactions (44.6%), caught tusk in an enclosure or enrichment item (28.4%), and a strike by the elephant of a tusk with an object (12.2%). For social causes, unstable hierarchy (45.5%) and specific agonistic interactions (36.4%) were the most frequently cited fracture causes. Steel gates were associated with 23.8% of fractures caused by enclosure elements. Management changes including tusk trimming, enrichment, training, and re-arranging social groups were found to be important in reducing subsequent fractures, with odds ratios showing that a second tusk fracture was 6.37 times more likely to occur if no management changes occurred after the first fracture. Our data suggests that targeted management strategies in herds with maturing males, unstable social dynamics, and/or high-risk enclosure elements could reduce the frequency of tusk fractures.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-03-03
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010008
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 102-112: Day Time Activity Budgets, Height Utilization
and Husbandry of Two Zoo-Housed Goodfellow’s Tree Kangaroos
(Dendrolagus goodfellowi buergersi)
Authors: Katherine Finch, Amy Humphreys
First page: 102
Abstract: Goodfellow’s tree kangaroos (Dendrolagus goodfellowi) are an endangered, arboreal macropod native to the lower, mid-montane rainforests of Papua New Guinea. Despite a number of holders keeping D. goodfellowi in zoos across the world, there is a lack of recent published work on this species. Here, we present daytime activity budgets, document height use and provide husbandry information for two Goodfellow’s tree kangaroos (Dendrolagus goodfellowi buergersi) housed at Chester Zoo, UK. Throughout the observation period, both individuals spent the majority of their time resting within the environment but also spent time engaging in vigilance, travel and feeding behaviour. Additionally, despite the age and sex differences of the study individuals, both animals used the highest height level in the indoor habitat most frequently. We aim to share our information and encourage knowledge transfer with other holders, to both increase understanding and promote evidence-based management of this species.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-03-04
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010009
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 113-130: Impacts of Socialization on Bull Asian
Elephant (Elephas maximus) Stereotypical Behavior
Authors: Taylor S. Readyhough, Sharon Joseph, Maura Davis, Anneke Moresco, Amy L. Schreier
First page: 113
Abstract: There is a growing need for animal care institutions to house multiple bull elephants as the population increases due to transfers from private ownership and the births of male offspring in managed care. Elephants in North American, European, and Latin American zoos exhibit stereotypies—repetitive, fixed behaviors. Previous research demonstrated that housing Asian elephants alone increased stereotypic behavior. Therefore, for animals in managed care, social restriction can contribute to stereotypy and, by extension, reduce welfare. In this study, we examine how being alone affects stereotypic behavior by monitoring pacing and head-bobbing in individual bull Asian elephants at Denver Zoo when housed alone as well as with other bulls. Two young males arrived at Denver Zoo in September 2018 and joined an existing all-male group of three elephants that were previously socialized and housed together. From July 2018 to December 2019, we used instantaneous scan sampling to collect data on stereotypic behavior of focal bulls when they were housed alone and socially. The frequency of pacing and head-bobbing significantly decreased when the elephants were housed socially compared to when they were housed alone; these stereotypies were lower when elephants were housed with at least one other bull and were in close proximity to a conspecific. Additionally, pacing decreased as the proportion of affiliative behaviors increased, and the amount of agonistic behavior did not significantly affect stereotypic behavior. When housed alone, bulls in musth engaged in significantly more pacing behavior than when they were out of musth. Our results indicate that housing bull Asian elephants in all-male groups substantially improves their welfare by reducing stereotypies and provides a basis for future evidence-based management.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-03-12
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010010
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
- JZBG, Vol. 3, Pages 131-146: Social Behavior Deficiencies in Captive
American Alligators (Alligator mississippiensis)
Authors: Zane Cullinane Walsh, Hannah Olson, Miranda Clendening, Athena Rycyk
First page: 131
Abstract: Understanding how the behavior of captive American alligator (Alligator mississippiensis) congregations compares to wild congregations is essential to assessing the welfare of alligators in captivity. Wild alligator congregations perform complex social behaviors, but it is unknown if such behaviors occur in captive congregations as frequently. We observed the behaviors of a captive and wild congregation of American alligators in Florida, USA in January 2021. Social behaviors were, on average, 827% more frequent in the wild congregation than the captive, and the wild congregation had a richer repertoire of social behaviors, with growling and HOTA (head oblique tail arched) behaviors being particularly common. High walking, a nonsocial behavior, dominated the behavioral repertoire of the captive congregation (94% of behaviors, excluding feeding) and may be a stereotypy that can be used as an indicator of welfare. Both congregations experienced human disturbance and displayed flushing as a species-specific defense reaction. Captive environments differ from the wild with respect to size, structure, stocking density, resource availability, and human presence. These differences translate into behavioral differences between wild and captive congregations. We identified important behavioral differences between wild and captive alligator congregations that can serve as a platform for more detailed investigations of alligator welfare in captivity.
Citation: Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens
PubDate: 2022-03-21
DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3010011
Issue No: Vol. 3, No. 1 (2022)
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