Animal Enrichment Programs and Practices

The video discusses animal enrichment at the zoo, focusing on how it helps animals express natural behaviors. Rob Nelson, a behavioral ecologist, explains the importance of enrichment in maintaining the physical and mental health of animals. Various types of enrichment, such as sensory, cognitive, and social, are highlighted with examples from lions, polar bears, and other animals. The role of volunteers in creating enrichment items is also emphasized. The video concludes with an invitation to visit the North Carolina Zoo to learn more about these efforts.

What is the primary focus of a behavioral ecologist?

• Feeding animals in zoos

• Designing zoo habitats

• Analyzing animal behavior in natural settings

• Studying the physical health of animals

Why do zoos encourage lions to sleep a lot?

• To mimic their natural behavior in the wild

• To make them less aggressive

• To keep them calm for visitors

• To save food costs

Which of the following is NOT a type of animal enrichment?

• Cognitive

• Physical

• Nutritional

• Social

How do polar bears use their noses in the wild?

• To communicate with other bears

• To find food

• To navigate their environment

• To detect predators

What is the purpose of using paper mache in animal enrichment?

• To provide a durable toy

• To simulate natural behaviors

• To make cleaning easier

• To improve the aesthetic of the habitat

What is a common theme for enrichment activities during Easter at the zoo?

• Halloween Haunt

• Summer Splash

• Christmas in July

• Eggstravaganza

What role do volunteers play in animal enrichment at the North Carolina Zoo?

• Feeding the animals

• Creating enrichment items

• Training the animals

• Cleaning the habitats

How do peregrine falcons engage with their food during enrichment?

• By sharing with other falcons

• By using their wings

• By soaring high and observing

• By using tools

What is the main goal of animal enrichment programs?

• To reduce zoo maintenance costs

• To increase animal population

• To replicate natural behaviors

• To entertain zoo visitors

Which scent was used on the zebra enrichment item for lions?

• Vanilla

• Cinnamon

• Lavender

• Peppermint