Results Interval plots were constructed for relevant

behaviours; pacing behaviour being the most

important. Though there was no significant difference

found (figure 1). (F 2.92, 2df, P 0.072, P>0.05).

A significant difference was however found in active

behaviours following a comparison of active and

inactive behaviours, (F 2.65, 2df, P 0.039, P<0.05).

This was collated per day rather than per observation

period to give a more accurate reading (figure 2).

The effect of environmental enrichment on pacing

behaviours in Giant Anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) A.Brown

Conclusion Pacing behaviours were seemingly decreased in both

individuals however not significantly. Active

behaviours were significantly increased showing the

enrichment did increase active behaviours. Albeit a

short study this highlights the importance of

enrichment for captive anteaters to reduce pacing. Plate 1 environmental

enrichment device Plate 2 holes in

enrichment to allow

feeding

Figure 1 Mean pacing behaviours for each anteater

throughout three observation periods

Figure 2 Active behaviours for each anteater

throughout the individual days

Aim To reduce pacing behaviours in both giant anteaters at Blackpool zoo.

Objective To introduce a novel feeding enrichment to increase natural behaviours

and decrease stereotypical pacing behaviours.

References Mason, G., & Rushen, J. (2006).

Stereotypic Animal Behaviour: Fundamentals and

Applications to Welfare. CABI.

Acknowledgments

J. Mulvany, T. Lloyd, L. Salanki, L. Gorrie and all of the zoo keepers

involved at Blackpool zoo.

Introduction Stereotypical behaviour is defined as a “ repetitive, unvarying behaviour with no apparent goal or function” (Mason & Rushen,

2006 p327). These behaviours are a common issue found within animals in a captive environment and are often considered as

poor welfare. Research in reducing stereotypical pacing behaviours tends to be focused on high profile animals and there is a lack

of research within the chosen species. Giant anteaters are classed as vulnerable by IUCN and the largest and only terrestrial

anteater, they have a poor sense of vision therefore rely on their sense of smell for foraging. Pacing is commonly observed in

captive anteaters, though research needs to be furthered in how to reduce pacing behaviours.

Plate 3 both anteaters feeding from

enrichment

Method Observations were carried out on giant anteaters (n=2) at Blackpool Zoo,

between November 2013 and January 2014. Observations were recorded

instantaneously at every minute per anteater for a total of 60 hours.

Observations were carried out on several different behaviours, with the

main focus being pacing. the individuals were observed over 3 study

periods (pre, during, post enrichment) consisting of 5 days each

A bamboo enrichment was constructed with holes in to encourage natural

feeding behaviours; and was placed in several areas in the enclosure to

keep the enrichment novel. The device was filled with dry leaves to

increase time spent foraging and filled with mealworms and either

banana or honey to keep the enrichment novel; the anteaters were not

provided with either food on a daily basis.

Myerscough College, St. Michaels road, Preston PR3 0RY

Jmulvany@myerscough.ac.uk