Effects of conditioning on the welfare of jaguars (Panthera onca) in captivity

L.C.F Garcia,L.G.D Dantas,B Dallago,F.E.M Bernal

doi:10.1590/1678-4162-12275

Abstract

ABSTRACT The jaguar is the largest feline in the Americas and in the face of the threat of extinction and the reduction of natural areas, keeping the species in captivity may be important for its conservation. This condition can lead to a reduction in well-being, especially due to spatial limitation and lack of environmental stimulus. In recent decades, techniques have been sought to minimize the negative impacts of captivity, with an increase in the use of environmental enrichment and operational conditioning in order to facilitate routine procedures for the animal management. In this scenario, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of conditioning on the welfare of jaguars in captivity, analyzing behavioral and physiological effects through salivary cortisol. Seven jaguars were studied in a Scientific Breeder. There was an increase in behaviors associated with welfare and cortisol during conditioning, possibly related to learning. The increase in behaviors associated with welfare suggests that the technique can contribute to improve the quality of life of these animals in captivity.

Highlights

Keeping animals in captivity is an important tool for the conservation of species, as long as they are kept in conditions of health and welfare (Swaisgood, 2010)
This study aimed to evaluate the effects of conditioning on the welfare of jaguars in captivity, analyzing behavioral and physiological effects through salivary cortisol
Differences were found between treatments for activity parameters, which increased in control treatment (CT) and conditioning treatment (CD) (P=0.0005), inactivity, which decreased in CT and CD (P=0.0009), animal welfare, which showed increased in CD, which is like to CT and after training (AT), but different of BL. (P=0.0052) and cortisol concentration, which increased in CD and AT (P=0.0012)

Summary

Introduction

Keeping animals in captivity is an important tool for the conservation of species, as long as they are kept in conditions of health and welfare (Swaisgood, 2010). When performed with appropriate techniques, by trained coaches and using positive reinforcement, conditioning can make it easier the research (Bassett et al, 2003), improves social interaction (Schapiro, et al, 2001), promotes animal welfare (Bloomsmith, et al, 1994) and makes the experience of zoo visitors more positive (Anderson et al, 2003). These positive effects are dependent on intrinsic characteristics related to the animal, the environment and the trainer and their relationship

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