Improving the welfare of African elephants Loxodonta africana in zoological institutions through enclosure design and husbandry management: an example from Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park

Abstract

Satisfying the physical and psychological needs of animals in zoological institutions can be a difficult task. In particular, maintaining high welfare standards for elephants poses a significant challenge because of their size, intelligence and complex social dynamic. In 2012, in order to address properly the needs of the female African elephants Loxodonta africana at Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, UK, a new indoor enclosure was constructed and substantial improvements were made to the outdoor habitat. The husbandry regime was also improved to encourage a greater amount of movement and more foraging, and provide additional decision‐making opportunities for the elephants. Various physical and behavioural improvements were observed after the elephants moved into the new indoor facility. Most notably, there was a significant decrease in the amount of stereotypic behaviours displayed by the dominant individual and an improvement in the condition of the feet of both elephants. The renovations at Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park demonstrate how correct enclosure design, combined with a well‐managed husbandry regime, can prove to be beneficial and enriching to the lives of elephants.