Understanding the efficacy of enrichment intervention from behavioural responses in captive Sloth Bears

Abstract

In this study, I tried to understand how enrichment activities affect the behavior and well-being of captive sloth bears. The study aimed to determine if enrichment intervention helps bears exhibit more natural behaviors and reduce stress-related behaviors, improving their overall welfare. Six Sloth bears were studied in two zoos, Delhi and Mumbai, and were observed before and after introducing enrichment intervention in the form of Pitfall feeder. These Feeders, helps in providing novel feeding methods and interactive object, and were designed to encourage the bears to engage in natural behaviors like exploring, digging and foraging etc. The study used various parameters to track changes in the bears' behavior, including different activity levels such as Proportion of time Active, Inactive and Stereotypic, usage of different zones of their enclosures, and behavior diversity. A comprehensive welfare index was computed from these parameters using Principal Component Analysis. The results showed that enrichment activities had some positive effect on the bears' behavior. The bears became more active and explored more areas of their enclosures after the enrichment activities were introduced. However, the response varied among individual bears, with few showing a decline in stress-related behaviors, while others did not exhibit significant changes or even showed an increase in such behaviors. This variability highlights the need for tailored enrichment plans that cater to the unique needs of each bear. The study also found differences between the two zoos, wherein markers of behavioural well-being were better in Mumbai Zoo compared to Delhi Zoo. This was attributed to better management practices and more complex enclosures in Mumbai. Thus, factors such as long-term management practices and the overall complexity of the enclosures play a crucial role in the well-being of captive sloth bears. In conclusion, while enrichment activities are beneficial for captive sloth bears, their design and implementation should be tailored to the individual needs of each bear to maximise their positive impact on well-being. This research supports the importance of regular and varied enrichment intervention in zoos to increase the wellbeing of captive animals. However, it also underscores the need for comprehensive management practices that ensure the long-term welfare of these animals consisting of enrichment plans and studies to be incorporated in the management plan of the zoos.