The impact of exhibit design on zoo visitor dwell time based on an unobtrusive observational methodology in Central European zoos
In this study, the effect of different exhibit designs on visitor dwell time was evaluated based on an unobtrusive and covert observation method in Budapest Zoo, Prague Zoo and Sosto Zoo. The time spent showing direct interest toward the species in an exhibit was measured. Observations took place under the criteria of visibility and fixed […]
The Welfare of Domestic Goats (Capra hircus) in a Zoo-Based Animal-Visitor Interaction Program
We investigated whether the welfare of domestic goats in an animal-visitor interaction experience at a zoo was affected by the presence and behavior of visitors. We considered how the number of visitors in the goats’ habitat and visitor proximity to the goats impacted goat behavior. We also considered the goats’ behavior toward visitors, use of […]
Boldness-mediated habitat use tactics and reproductive success in a wild large herbivore
The balance between resource acquisition and risk avoidance should vary according to personality type, with potential knock-on effects for fitness. Although previous studies have suggested a link between boldness and fitness components, little evidence is available on the behavioural mechanisms mediating this relationship in the wild. Because habitat use is the outcome of the trade-off […]
Social influences on vigilance behaviour in giraffes, Giraffa camelopardalis
Vigilance in ungulates is considered to have a predominantly antipredator function, with the frequency and duration of scans per individual decreasing with increasing group size. Social influences on vigilance scans have been overlooked in studies on ungulates, although studies in primates and birds show that conspecific scans are important determinants of vigilance behaviour. We investigated […]
Using a Timed Feeder to Increase Activity and Exhibit Usage in Captive Giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis)
The use of enrichment to simulate a natural environment has become increasingly important in the management of captive animals, especially in large exotic ungulates. Indicators of positive welfare in giraffes are behaviors that mimic those displayed in the wild. This study uses a randomly timed feeder in an exhibit for a herd of seven captive […]
Giraffa camelopardalis
species monograph
Sexual segregation by Masai giraffes at two spatial scales
In this paper alternative explanations for observed patterns of sexual segregation by giraffes are examined at two spatial scales: within-habitats and within-landscape. Habitats are defined as recognizable plant associations and the landscape as the collection of all available habitat types. The study was conducted in Mikumi National Park, Tanzania. At the within-landscape level, all sex […]
Urinary corticosteroid excretion patterns in the okapi (Okapia johnstoni)
Stress is known to alter a variety of biological processes, including behavior and reproduction. It is therefore important to understand the stress levels of animals in captivity, especially those for whom captive breeding is a priority, such as the okapi. Levels of stress hormones can be measured from samples collected noninvasively, such as urine or […]
Tragelaphus eurycerus
Review of contraception in ungulate species
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.20154.abs Most ungulate species are herd animals. In captivity, and increasingly so in the wild, space constraints limit natural behaviors associated with group dynamics, possibly resulting in inbreeding and/or overpopulation. This situation has necessitated research regarding contraception of various species of hoofstock. Differing management situations mandate different contraception protocols to achieve optimal results. Fertility […]