Friends of the Zoo

Animals in captivity have an abundance of time on their hands and will often show stereotypic or abnormal behavior patterns if they cannot channel their energy and intellect in constructive ways. Most of the normal time spent in survival mode has been eliminated by being placed or reared in captivity. The animal has more time to play and lounge. That is where the role of enrichment comes in. There are many forms of enrichment. Each type has a different application and can be as varied as the animals it can be presented to.

Cage design is one of the more important considerations of an animal in captivity.  Furniture, perches, swings, den boxes, plants and other items would be included in this category. Unfortunately exhibit design is still one of the most overlooked areas of enrichment. Good exhibit design will provide the basic needs for the animals with consideration to denning areas, escape zones, isolation regions, etc.

Proper social groupings are another important need. Ideally social animals will be housed in social groupings as they would be found outside of captivity.

Creative feeding strategies that encourage foraging behavior like interval feeding, quantity, texture, fresh, frozen, live, and challenges to obtain the food are ideal.

Novel objects, or creative use of those objects (natural objects or man-made) can be something that occupies an animal for hours. Balls, truck tires, browse, large and small branches, wood wool, flowers, insects, feathers, and a variety of other nontoxic or safety tested objects can provide fun for the animal, but should be removed and replaced with other types of objects frequently to avoid habituation and boredom.

Visual creativity or anything that attracts the eye, such as introduction of different colors or shades, objects triggered by wind movement or viewing animals in other exhibits are also a part of enrichment.

Introducing scents can also be enriching and can vary from strong smelling food, cooking spices, perfumed oil, lotion, hunting scents, or by bringing in items from other animal exhibits.

Having other animals within vocal range can also be enriching or talking to animals. They enjoy the verbal interaction and will often attempt to communicate with you verbally and by coming up to see you.