Feeding Enrichment in a Captive Pack of European Wolves (<i>Canis Lupus Lupus</i>): Assessing the Effects on Welfare and on a Zoo’s Recreational, Educational and Conservational Role

• Main Authors: Giacomo Riggio, Chiara Mariti, Chiara Boncompagni, Simone Corosaniti, Massimiliano Di Giovanni, Asahi Ogi, Angelo Gazzano, Robert Thomas
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2019-06-01
• Series: Animals
• Subjects: zoo; wolf behaviour; animal welfare; visitor; conservation; education
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/9/6/331

This study investigated the effects of two feeding enrichment programs on the behaviour of a captive pack of European wolves (<i>Canis lupus lupus</i>) and their correlation with both zoo visitors&#8217; interest towards the exhibit and their overall perception of the species. Behavioural data (exploration, stereotypies, social interactions, activity/inactivity rates) were collected on four male wolves during four two-week long phases: initial control, hidden food, novel object, final control. Three observation sessions were performed daily: before, during and after feeding. Number of visitors and their permanence in front of the exhibit were recorded. After watching the wolves, visitors were asked to fill out a brief questionnaire in order to investigate their perception of captive wolf welfare, as well as their attitude towards wolf conservation issues. Despite the high inter-individual variability in their behavioural response, all wolves seemed to benefit from feeding enrichment. With regard to visitors, interest in the exhibit increased when enrichment was provided. Visitors&#8217; perception of the level of welfare of wolves improved if they attended a feeding session, especially during the novel object phase. Visitors&#8217; attitude towards wolf conservation issues also improved during feeding sessions, regardless of enrichment provision.