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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.
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