Wild Within
social Enrichment
Appropriate group management through understanding the natural group composition for a species allows and encourages natural social behaviours, such as allogrooming and the establishment of hierarchies, which is especially important for animals which live in and rely on groups in the wild. Where appropriate, some species may be kept in mixed-species environments, where species which would naturally interact in the wild are kept together, allowing additional social behaviours. Social enrichment is also one aspect of behavioural training, as some level of social interaction is required between individuals and their carers.
Large Carnivores
Focus on encouraging hunting and feeding behaviours. Think about where they would find their prey, how they would stalk, chase and catch their prey and any species-specific hunting behaviours or adaptations. Food items including fur and feathers will encourage natural feeding (and sometimes play) behaviours and increases the time taken to consume food.
Small Carnivores
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Primates
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Reptiles
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Birds
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Hoofstock
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