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J. Zool. Bot. Gard., Volume 5, Issue 3 (September 2024) – 10 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): Avian Influenza (AI) causes disruption to bird husbandry and housing in zoos. Little is known about the portential behaviour and welfare impacts of such changes to daily routine. This project investigated the behavioural responses and change to the plumage condition in a flock of captive flamingos to determine any impact of an AI-enforced housing order (HO). Flamingos were more vigilant in the HO but did not display increased abnormal behaviour. Increased social behaviour performance was linked to improved plumage conditions. Flamingos were inactive under both housing regimes. As such, we recommend the inclusion of environmental enrichment during both a HO and normal husbandry. Our results show the importance of regular behavioural monitoring in deciphering welfare states and validating measures of welfare for zoo birds under all types of housing and husbandry. View this paper
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19 pages, 5207 KiB  
Article
Continuous Video Monitoring of Zoo Cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus jubatus) Reveals Differential Engagement Patterns for Environmental Enrichment Items Based on Sensory Category
by Haley N. Beer, Dustin T. Yates, Trenton C. Shrader and Ty B. Schmidt
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 520-538; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030035 - 16 Sep 2024
Viewed by 2330
Abstract
Strategically enriching the environment of zoo felids to encourage innate behaviors is essential to good welfare. To investigate how engagement differs among sensory-based enrichment, six items representing tactile (firehose log, Jolly Eggs), visual (mirror, movie), and olfactory (cinnamon, cologne) sensory categories were offered [...] Read more.
Strategically enriching the environment of zoo felids to encourage innate behaviors is essential to good welfare. To investigate how engagement differs among sensory-based enrichment, six items representing tactile (firehose log, Jolly Eggs), visual (mirror, movie), and olfactory (cinnamon, cologne) sensory categories were offered to three adult cheetah siblings. Each item was offered four times: twice during daytime hours and twice overnight (≥5 h/occasion). Static video monitoring was used to investigate engagement frequency and duration for each item and to observe grooming behaviors. Cheetahs engaged with visual enrichment more frequently (p < 0.05) and for greater (p < 0.05) periods than other items. Allogrooming occurred most frequently (p < 0.05) when the movie was provisioned at night. Tactile enrichment was only modestly engaged, with fewer but longer engagements (p < 0.05) at nighttime than at daytime. Autogrooming frequency did not vary among enrichment items but was greater (p < 0.05) at night than day. These findings showed that zoo cheetah responses to sensory enrichment items differed based on type and time of day. Visual stimuli were favored, whereas olfactory stimuli were generally ignored. This illustrates the benefit of diverse sensory-specific enrichment strategies. Such dynamic strategies can help overcome the challenge of individual preferences to encourage engagement reflective of the animal’s natural behaviors. Full article
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13 pages, 1776 KiB  
Article
Behavioral Interactions and Mate Compatibility Influence the Reproductive Success of New England Cottontails (Sylvilagus transitionalis) in a Conservation Breeding Program
by Hannah Petit, Louis Perrotti and Justin T. Richard
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 507-519; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030034 - 9 Sep 2024
Viewed by 588
Abstract
Wild populations of New England cottontails (NECs, Sylvilagus transitionalis) are declining and occupy a small proportion of their historic range. To conserve this species, wild-caught cottontails participate in a reintroduction breeding program. To increase the program’s productivity, this study described breeding behavior [...] Read more.
Wild populations of New England cottontails (NECs, Sylvilagus transitionalis) are declining and occupy a small proportion of their historic range. To conserve this species, wild-caught cottontails participate in a reintroduction breeding program. To increase the program’s productivity, this study described breeding behavior in pairings with (n = 3 pairings) and without (n = 9 pairings) reproductive success. Females were paired with two males consecutively and behaviors were recorded using 24 h continuous video footage. Activity peaked between 19:00 and 06:00. Copulation was only observed in successful pairings, and the gestation period was 31 days. Successful pairings had a significantly higher rate of follows (p < 0.001) and a lower rate of dashes (p < 0.0001) compared to unsuccessful pairings. Females had significantly higher rates of charge (p < 0.0005), chase (p < 0.0003), and dash (p < 0.0016) than males. Males had higher rates of follow (p < 0.005) than females. Males and females altered their behavior in the presence of different potential mates, suggesting that mate compatibility may influence breeding program productivity. This study significantly expands the understanding of NEC breeding behavior and is applicable to the management of this imperiled species living at low densities in fragmented landscapes. Full article
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15 pages, 3796 KiB  
Article
Coprological Survey of Helminths in Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus) in 50 Selected Zoos and Menageries in Russia
by Olga A. Loginova, Svetlana V. Akulova, Dmitry N. Egorov, Natalia S. Egorova, Sergei E. Spiridonov, Iuliia K. Plotnikova, Larisa M. Belova, Yuriy E. Kuznetsov, Daria I. Chuprak, Anna A. Krutikova, Iuliia V. Vasilkova, Diana A. Gelashvili, Yuri A. Shchepanovsky, Ivan A. Mizin, Danila V. Panchenko, Mikhail G. Bondar and Taras P. Sipko
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 492-506; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030033 - 12 Aug 2024
Viewed by 899
Abstract
Zoo conditions are unique for reindeer, since domestic reindeer are not kept in captive facilities like cattle. In the zoo, reindeer are usually surrounded by many different animals that they would never encounter naturally. Thus, they might be infected with new helminths. Numerous [...] Read more.
Zoo conditions are unique for reindeer, since domestic reindeer are not kept in captive facilities like cattle. In the zoo, reindeer are usually surrounded by many different animals that they would never encounter naturally. Thus, they might be infected with new helminths. Numerous petting zoos raise concerns about the safety of tactile interactions for human visitors. Our study is the first large-scale one. Qualitative and quantitative fecal analyses were carried out for 233 reindeer distributed over 50 Russian zoos according to the National Standard of the Russian Federation (GOST R 54627-2011) Ruminant animals—Methods of Laboratory Helminthological Diagnostics. Where possible, DNA analyses of helminths were performed targeting internal transcribed spacer region. As a result, F. hepatica, Paramphistomum sp., Moniezia sp. (including M. expansa), gastrointestinal strongylids (including Nematodirus spp.), Dictyocaulus sp., E. rangiferi, Trichuris sp., and Capillaria sp. were found in 106 (45%) zoo reindeer. All these helminths were previously reported in reindeer and pose no direct danger for humans. The intensity of invasions was mostly low. Fecal examination might be considered as an indirect method for mange diagnostics, as Chorioptes and Demodex mites were found in reindeer fecal samples. The latter may represent a novel species of mite specific for reindeer. Full article
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11 pages, 641 KiB  
Review
Reimagining Relationships with Resources as a Public Garden: Case Studies of Longwood Gardens’ Sustainability and Stewardship Practices
by Jessica B. Turner-Skoff, Lea R. Johnson, Erik Stefferud, Paul Stratman and Kate Santos
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 481-491; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030032 - 5 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1480
Abstract
Longwood Gardens (Kennett Square, PA, USA) is working toward a future where the beauty of nature can be enjoyed by all through its sustainability and stewardship efforts. Using case studies highlighting water quality and conservation, carbon footprint reduction, material circularity, and land stewardship, [...] Read more.
Longwood Gardens (Kennett Square, PA, USA) is working toward a future where the beauty of nature can be enjoyed by all through its sustainability and stewardship efforts. Using case studies highlighting water quality and conservation, carbon footprint reduction, material circularity, and land stewardship, this paper examines the multifaceted approach that Longwood takes to address its environmental impact. First, a description of Longwood’s innovative water quality and conservation strategies and their integration of green and gray infrastructure is described. Next, the paper explores the comprehensive measures adopted to curtail its carbon footprint, from energy-efficient infrastructure to renewable energy sources. Then, Longwood’s commitment to material circularity is investigated, showcasing initiatives that reuse organic materials and create necessary products for the Gardens onsite. Finally, the Gardens’ holistic land stewardship practices are detailed, including habitat preservation and biodiversity enhancement. The paper concludes with valuable findings learned from the organization’s sustainability and stewardship journey, offering insights applicable to other gardens or campuses seeking to improve their ecological impact while maintaining a commitment to esthetic and horticultural excellence. Full article
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16 pages, 1246 KiB  
Article
Psychological Pathways to Ocean Conservation: A Study of Marine Mammal Park Visitors
by João Neves, Jean-Christophe Giger, João Oliveira, Leonor Pacheco, Guilherme Gonçalves, Ana A. Silva and Inês Costa
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 465-480; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030031 - 1 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1174
Abstract
This study investigated the psychological constructs related to ocean conservation among visitors to a marine mammal park in Portugal. A survey was conducted with 335 adult visitors, assessing value orientations, awareness of ocean vulnerability, attribution of responsibility, personal norms, and behavioral intentions towards [...] Read more.
This study investigated the psychological constructs related to ocean conservation among visitors to a marine mammal park in Portugal. A survey was conducted with 335 adult visitors, assessing value orientations, awareness of ocean vulnerability, attribution of responsibility, personal norms, and behavioral intentions towards ocean conservation. The results revealed two distinct attitudinal profiles among the visitors. ‘Anthropocentric visitors’ prioritize human interests over environmental concerns, along with heightened awareness of the ocean’s vulnerability and greater ascription of responsibility to humans for environmental problems. ‘Ecocentric visitors’ recognize the intrinsic worth of nature, reporting deeper awareness of the consequences of environmental issues on the ocean, more robust personal norms centered on moral obligations towards conservation and higher behavioral intentions to support ocean conservation. Compared to whale-watching tourists from a previous study, the zoo visitors exhibited more polarized anthropocentric and ecocentric profiles, suggesting the whale-watching tourists fell somewhere between the two zoo visitor profiles in their psychological orientations. These contrasting profiles emphasize the heterogeneity in environmental attitudes and highlight the importance of tailoring interventions to resonate with the distinct psychological motivations of different audience segments. Institutions like zoos can play a vital role in shaping public attitudes through targeted communication strategies aligned with visitors’ unique value systems and beliefs. Full article
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10 pages, 1909 KiB  
Article
Inclusive Enrichment for Dragons: Behavioral Responses of Amputee and Non-Amputee Individuals of Bearded Dragons Pogona vitticeps to Different Food Enrichment Items
by Luisa Martins Pereira, Cristiano Schetini de Azevedo, Helen Colbachini, Cynthia Fernandes Cipreste, Maria Eduarda Schilbach Pizzutto, Laura Chrispim Reisfeld, Rafael Capriolli Gutierrez, Fabiana Lúcia André Padilha and Cristiane Schilbach Pizzutto
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 455-464; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030030 - 24 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1696
Abstract
Studies on environmental enrichment for captive bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) are still very scarce in the literature, but they are of the utmost importance in the search for quality of life for these animals when they are under human care. Environmental [...] Read more.
Studies on environmental enrichment for captive bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) are still very scarce in the literature, but they are of the utmost importance in the search for quality of life for these animals when they are under human care. Environmental enrichment items should be inclusive, allowing disabled animals to explore them and providing good experiences. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate food enrichment strategies to increase the foraging behavior of captive non-disabled and disabled bearded dragons. This work was carried out with six adult bearded dragons, three of which had one limb amputated and three that had all limbs, kept at the São Paulo Aquarium. Live kingworm larvae (Zophobas morio) were offered as food in three different levels of enrichment challenge (low, medium, high). Behavioral data were collected using focal sampling with instantaneous recording, with a time interval of every 30 s. Results showed that the more complex the food enrichment challenge, the greater the frequency of bearded dragon foraging. In addition, both amputees and non-amputees responded similarly to the enrichment items, differing primarily in their activity levels, where amputee individuals showed more tendencies toward ‘stationary’ and ‘lying down’ behaviors. More studies with reptiles should be encouraged so that good management practices become daily protocols for a better quality of life and for rescuing the natural behaviors of animals kept under human care, even those with anatomical disabilities. Full article
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21 pages, 11245 KiB  
Article
Using Eye-Tracking to Create Impactful Interpretation Signage for Botanic Gardens and Other Visitor Attractions
by Sarah L. Spooner, Nicola Heath and Tee Dymond
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 434-454; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030029 - 18 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1323
Abstract
Despite their prevalence in almost all publicly orientated conservation settings, sign design receives limited attention in the research literature. We used a remote eye-tracking device to test how visitors read educational signs, maps, and species signage. Three designs, plus a plain-text control sign, [...] Read more.
Despite their prevalence in almost all publicly orientated conservation settings, sign design receives limited attention in the research literature. We used a remote eye-tracking device to test how visitors read educational signs, maps, and species signage. Three designs, plus a plain-text control sign, were tested for each sign type. Sign content was based on Brackenhurst Botanic Garden, Kenya, and included four different information texts (156–256 words long) and a species information text (64 words long). Four presentations of extinction threat status were also tested as were depictions of trail routes on maps. Data were collected from 51 participants at six cultural venues across Nottingham, U.K. Signs positioned centre-left of an exhibit were read first. Information on the left-hand side of signs was read first and dwelled upon the longest. Signs with a single large image and a single block of text were generally preferred, and images were most frequently recalled. Extinction threat status was most frequently viewed and best recalled from green–red thermometer diagrams and least from the IUCN red list diagram. Map routes were clearest when presented as coloured solid lines. This study indicates the potential benefit of eye-tracking research for measuring sign use and assisting in sign design. Full article
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18 pages, 7503 KiB  
Article
Evaluating Potential Indicators of Welfare for Zoo Birds during an Avian Influenza Enforced Housing Order
by Thomas Collard and Paul Rose
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 416-433; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030028 - 15 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1834
Abstract
Unusual or extraordinary circumstances can cause change to normal husbandry regimes and daily care of managed animals. Increased biosecurity due to disease risk, for example, results in animals experiencing restrictions. Outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) have caused zoos to remove birds [...] Read more.
Unusual or extraordinary circumstances can cause change to normal husbandry regimes and daily care of managed animals. Increased biosecurity due to disease risk, for example, results in animals experiencing restrictions. Outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) have caused zoos to remove birds from their regular exhibits and manage them indoors or in covered enclosures to reduce the likelihood of an HPAI outbreak on site. To date, there has been little research on the impacts of such husbandry change on bird behaviour and welfare. This paper examines the effect of an HPAI-induced enforced housing order (HO) on the behaviour and physical condition of a flock of Chilean flamingos in a UK zoo. Using ZooMonitor to record flock-wide behaviour patterns and scoring plumage condition, we collected data on flamingos during a housing order, immediately after lifting of the HO, and after a period of acclimation to their regular routine. Results showed that flamingos were very inactive under a HO and after release, that abnormal, redirected foraging actions occurred during the HO and after release, and that flamingos were more alert under the HO. An increase in records of good plumage condition correlated with social behaviour, inactivity, higher temperatures, and rain. This research highlights the multifactorial influences on zoo animal behaviour and shows why information on the animals, their inputs, the behavioural outputs they present, and their physical attributes should all be gathered and evaluated together to best understand the influences of husbandry and management changes on behaviour and welfare. Full article
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21 pages, 649 KiB  
Article
Empathy Capacity-Building through a Community of Practice Approach: Exploring Perceived Impacts and Implications
by Julie Ernst, Claire Underwood, Mandi Wojciehowski and Thelma Nayquonabe
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 395-415; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030027 - 13 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1163
Abstract
Empathy can be a powerful catalyst for caring action toward wildlife and nature more broadly. Given the critical developmental period of early childhood, interventions that build the capacity of educators to support empathy development in young children are needed. We report on an [...] Read more.
Empathy can be a powerful catalyst for caring action toward wildlife and nature more broadly. Given the critical developmental period of early childhood, interventions that build the capacity of educators to support empathy development in young children are needed. We report on an evaluation of an empathy-focused Community of Practice (CoP) that engaged 15 regional early childhood professionals (including four zoo preschool staff) in the co-creation of empathy practices that are deepened through a ‘Two-Worlds’ (Indigenous and Western) approach. Ripple effect mapping was the evaluation approach used, as its participatory nature and emphasis on reflection were well aligned with the CoP approach. The results suggest CoP participation influenced teachers’ capacity for supporting empathy development, which rippled outward from teacher-level impacts to positive impacts on children, families, and beyond. We also offer reflections on the use of a CoP approach to build individual, organizational, and community capacity for supporting empathy, as well as on the conduciveness of ripple effect mapping for evaluating capacity-building professional learning in the context of empathy conservation. Full article
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17 pages, 6625 KiB  
Article
Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden: Biodiversity Conservation in a Tropical Arboretum
by Thaís Moreira Hidalgo de Almeida, Marcus Alberto Nadruz Coelho and Ariane Luna Peixoto
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2024, 5(3), 378-394; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg5030026 - 10 Jul 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1129
Abstract
In light of increasing human impacts on natural areas and climate change, urgent action is required to accelerate species conservation efforts. Ex situ conservation has gained importance, yet the increasing endangered species challenge is magnified in botanic gardens, notably tropical ones, insufficient to [...] Read more.
In light of increasing human impacts on natural areas and climate change, urgent action is required to accelerate species conservation efforts. Ex situ conservation has gained importance, yet the increasing endangered species challenge is magnified in botanic gardens, notably tropical ones, insufficient to safeguard such diverse flora. This study focused on the living collection of the arboretum at the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden, examining all cultivated specimens and institutional database records between January and July 2023. It cross-referenced the collection’s composition with the Flora e Funga do Brasil list, as well as Red Lists, to reveal that the collection includes 6960 specimens representing 1420 species, with 60.6% of these species native to Brazil, belonging to 134 botanical families. The collection encompasses all Brazilian phytogeographic domains, with the Atlantic Forest and the Amazon having the highest number of species in cultivation. In terms of conservation efforts, the collection includes 83 species from the Brazilian Red List and 106 species from the IUCN Red List, contributing to the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation, Target 8. This evaluation is the first step toward identifying collection gaps, future planning, and targeting species for acquisition to enhance the effectiveness of our conservation efforts. Full article
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