Bristol Zoo Gardens Research Articles

Wing condition does not negatively impact time budget, enclosure usage, or social bonds in a flock of both full-winged and flight-restrained greater flamingos.

Zoo management techniques for captive birds, such as flight restraint and enclosure type, may affect behavioral performance and are consequently worthy of investigation. Flamingos are amongst the most popular of zoo-housed birds and, as such, research into their captive management and associated behavioral responses are widely applicable to many thousands of individuals. As a highly social species, understanding social bonds and behavior of the individual bird and the flock overall can help inform decisions that support husbandry and population management. In this project, 41 greater flamingos at Bristol Zoo Gardens were observed for 49 days across spring and summer 2013 to assess the following: (i) social associations within the flock, (ii) overall activity patterns, and (iii) distribution of time within specific enclosure zones for both full-winged and flight-restrained birds living in the same enclosure. Results showed that pinioning interacted with age in regard to flamingo time-activity patterns, but wing condition did not significantly influence association patterns, performance of social interactions, or performance of breeding behavior. Social network analysis revealed that associations were nonrandom and flamingos, of either wing condition, displayed different roles within the network. Birds of similar age formed the strongest bonds. Enclosure usage was not even, suggesting that the flamingos favored specific areas of the enclosure during the observation period. This study showed that wing condition does not affect flamingo behavior, social bonds, or space use, and that age and sex have more of an overall influence on what flamingos do, and with whom they chose to do it. Further research should extend this study into other, larger captive flocks to further refine behavioral measures of welfare for these popular zoo birds.

Predictors of dominance rank and agonistic interactions in captive Livingstone's fruit bats.

Male dominance hierarchies have been studied in many animals but rarely in bats (Chiroptera). The dominance rank of social animals may dictate access to resources and mates; therefore, it has important implications for an individual's fitness and is crucial for successful captive management. Between January and December 2018, at both Bristol Zoo Gardens (Bristol, UK) and Jersey Zoo (Jersey, British Isles), we observed 19 male Livingstone's fruit bats Pteropus livingstonii using focal follows for 345 h overall, noting the outcome of all agonistic interactions. We recorded instigators of interactions, along with winners and losers, and analyzed these data using the R-package "EloRating" to create Elo-rating temporal plots of dominance ranks. We used generalized linear mixed models and multiple linear regression to analyze interaction data and test hypotheses regarding predictors of dominance rank, frequency of agonistic interaction, and choice of interaction partner. Age was positively correlated with dominance rank up to around year 9, when an asymptote was attained. Highly ranked bats instigated the most agonistic interactions, and largely directed these interactions at bats with much lower rankings than themselves. Hierarchies were extremely stable throughout the data collection period at both sites. We conclude that Livingstone's fruit bats have a stable linear dominance hierarchy, with high-ranking, typically older males instigating the most interactions with lowest ranking males to secure dominance rank. This study adds to the limited discourse on Pteropus social behaviors, indicating that some bat species may have social systems similar in complexity to some nonhuman primates.

Evaluating Cognitive Enrichment for Zoo-Housed Gorillas Using Facial Recognition.

The use of computer technology within zoos is becoming increasingly popular to help achieve high animal welfare standards. However, despite its various positive applications to wildlife in recent years, there has been little uptake of machine learning in zoo animal care. In this paper, we describe how a facial recognition system, developed using machine learning, was embedded within a cognitive enrichment device (a vertical, modular finger maze) for a troop of seven Western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) at Bristol Zoo Gardens, UK. We explored whether machine learning could automatically identify individual gorillas through facial recognition, and automate the collection of device-use data including the order, frequency and duration of use by the troop. Concurrent traditional video recording and behavioral coding by eye was undertaken for comparison. The facial recognition system was very effective at identifying individual gorillas (97% mean average precision) and could automate specific downstream tasks (for example, duration of engagement). However, its development was a heavy investment, requiring specialized hardware and interdisciplinary expertise. Therefore, we suggest a system like this is only appropriate for long-term projects. Additionally, researcher input was still required to visually identify which maze modules were being used by gorillas and how. This highlights the need for additional technology, such as infrared sensors, to fully automate cognitive enrichment evaluation. To end, we describe a future system that combines machine learning and sensor technology which could automate the collection of data in real-time for use by researchers and animal care staff.

Social Behaviour in Zoo Bachelor Groups: A Case Study of Related South American Fur Seals.

Simple SummaryAppropriate management of social groups is one of the greatest challenges that face zoos and aquaria worldwide. All-male social groups provide an opportunity for facilities to house surplus males in groups which optimise their welfare whilst they are being retained for future use in breeding programmes. Here, we investigated social behaviour in a relatively poorly studied species, the South American fur seal (SAFS). Four individuals housed in a related group were studied over a 6-month period. The results showed that their social relationships changed over time, although the individuals always engaged in more positive than negative interactions. We recommend establishing baseline social behaviour profiles of individuals to enable long-term monitoring of SAFS social groups, as has been recommended in other species. This will enable enhanced understanding of South American fur seals and will contribute to the development of evidence-based social management guidelines for this species.Appropriate management of social groups is one of the greatest challenges that face zoos and aquaria worldwide. To facilitate breeding programmes, particularly in polygynous species, there is a need to house surplus males in bachelor groups, yet for pinnipeds, the social impact of this management strategy is unknown. The aim of this research was to enhance understanding of sociality in South American fur seals (SAFSs), with a particular focus on social dynamics in a related bachelor group, and consider implications for evidence-based management of this species in zoos. The subjects were four related male seals housed at Bristol Zoo Gardens. Social interaction and nearest neighbour data were collected between February and July 2019. Individuals engaged in both positive and negative social interactions. Positive interactions were more frequent than negative interactions, and no excessive negative interactions were observed. Temporal dynamics were observed in social relationships, and negative interactions did not increase with the onset of the breeding season. Reciprocity in dyadic relationships was variable across the study months, and nearest neighbours were not necessarily reflective of social partners. This research highlights the importance of longitudinal monitoring of social relationships and establishment of baseline social behaviour profiles to support evidence-based species management. We advocate that this research is extended, to further develop our understanding of SAFS social needs within zoo environments, to understand the differences between single-sex and mixed-sex groups and to identify the degree to which the extensive research conducted in other polygynous species (e.g., gorillas) is applicable in the social management of South American fur seals moving forwards.

Hand-rearing protocol and comparison of growth rates in parent reared versus hand reared offspring: a case study in Callicebus cupreus

The European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) for coppery titi monkeys (Callicebus cupreus) has a total population of 90 individuals within zoos that suffer from low reproduction rates and high neonatal mortality. Bristol Zoo Gardens (BZG) housed a breeding female from 2012 who first showed signs of pregnancy in 2017. During parturition, the female died from shock secondary to uterine prolapse. In order to ensure the survival of the infant it was hand-reared. This infant offered the opportunity to trial a hand-rearing protocol for Callicebus. The aim of this publication is to report the first detailed hand rearing protocol for the species and to compare the growth rates of two hand-reared infants against and seven parent-reared titi monkeys using information on growth rates gathered using ZIMS. Day had a significant effect on the weight of both hand-reared and parent-reared titi monkeys (F(1,57)=919.3, p<0.001, np2 =0.942). Parent-reared titi monkeys had significantly higher growth rates (457.9±9.3) compared to the hand-reared (390.7±11.1) titi monkeys (F(1,57)=19.804, p<0.001, np2 =0.258). Despite the differences in growth rates between the hand-reared and mother-reared infants the rearing protocol used was considered successful due to the infant being the first hand reared coppery titi monkey to survive to adulthood without any nutritional deficiencies. Further research is needed to develop this protocol to include more natural feeding and socialisation procedures to improve hand reared coppery titi monkey growth and development in captivity and other Callicebus species in the future.

High-Tech and Tactile: Cognitive Enrichment for Zoo-Housed Gorillas.

The field of environmental enrichment for zoo animals, particularly great apes, has been revived by technological advancements such as touchscreen interfaces and motion sensors. However, direct animal-computer interaction (ACI) is impractical or undesirable for many zoos. We developed a modular cuboid puzzle maze for the troop of six Western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) at Bristol Zoo Gardens, United Kingdom. The gorillas could use their fingers or tools to interact with interconnected modules and remove food rewards. Twelve modules could be interchanged within the frame to create novel iterations with every trial. We took a screen-free approach to enrichment: substituting ACI for tactile, physically complex device components, in addition to hidden automatic sensors, and cameras to log device use. The current study evaluated the gorillas’ behavioral responses to the device, and evaluated it as a form of “cognitive enrichment.” Five out of six gorillas used the device, during monthly trials of 1 h duration, over a 6 month period. All users were female including two infants, and there were significant individual differences in duration of device use. The successful extraction of food rewards was only performed by the three tool-using gorillas. Device use did not diminish over time, and gorillas took turns to use the device alone or as one mother-infant dyad. Our results suggest that the device was a form of cognitive enrichment for the study troop because it allowed gorillas to solve novel challenges, and device use was not associated with behavioral indicators of stress or frustration. However, device exposure had no significant effects on gorilla activity budgets. The device has the potential to be a sustainable enrichment method in the long-term, tailored to individual gorilla skill levels and motivations. Our study represents a technological advancement for gorilla enrichment, an area which had been particularly overlooked until now. We wholly encourage the continued development of this physical maze system for other great apes under human care, with or without computer logging technology.

A Retrospective Study Of Morbidity In Captive Columbiformes Housed In Bristol Zoo Gardens And Wild Place Project, United Kingdom From 2000 – 2017

Medical records from 860 pigeons and doves of 24 species housed in Bristol Zoo Gardens and Wild Place Project, United Kingdom, from 2000 to 2017 were reviewed to determine the causes of morbidity in captive columbiformes. Accounted 205 cases (51.25%), infectious disease was found as the primary cause of morbidity, followed by 133 cases of trauma (33.25%), 51 (8.9%) cases of non-infectious disease, and 8 (2%) cases of husbandry-related problem. The main cause of infectious disease was parasite infection with 35% over 31% of bacterial, 26% of undetermined etiology and 9% of fungal infection. More specific, nematodiasis was the most frequent parasitic disease found, presented in 49 (69%) cases and followed by 10 (14%) trichomoniasis of all parasite infection. Meanwhile, chlamydiosis was a leading cause of bacterial infection with 22 (35%) cases recorded of over 63 bacterial infections. These results highlight the importance of preventative medicine implementation in captivity which aims to detect the disease earlier hence reducing the worsening physical condition and minimising the risk of both zoonotic and non-zoonotic disease transmissions. In addition, these findings contribute to the limited information available regarding the captive columbiformes morbidity

GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES IN CAPTIVE AND FREE-RANGING BIRDS AND POTENTIAL CROSS-TRANSMISSION IN A ZOO ENVIRONMENT.

Gastrointestinal parasites are commonly reported in wild birds, but transmission amongst avifauna in zoological settings, and between these captive birds and wild birds in surrounding areas, remains poorly understood. A survey was undertaken to investigate the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in captive and free-ranging birds at Bristol Zoo Gardens between May and July 2016. A total of 348 fecal samples from 32 avian species were examined using the Mini-FLOTAC flotation method. Parasites were detected in 31% (45/145) of samples from captive birds and in 65.5% (133/203) of samples from free-ranging birds. Parasites of captive individuals included ascarids ( Heterakis spp. and other morphotypes), capillarids, oxyurids, strongyles, a trematode, and protozoans ( Eimeria spp., Isospora spp., Caryospora sp., and Entamoeba spp.). Parasites of free-ranging birds included ascarids ( Ascaridia spp., Porrocaecum spp., and other morphotypes), capillarids, oxyurids, strongyles ( Syngamus spp. and other morphotypes), cestodes ( Choanotaenia spp., Hymenolepis spp., and other morphotypes), a trematode, and protozoans ( Eimeria spp., Isospora spp., Entamoeba spp.). Similar types of parasites were detected in captive and free-ranging birds, but capillarid ova morphology was similar only between closely related species, eg in corvids (captive azure-winged magpies [ Cyanipica cyana] and wild jackdaws [ Corvus monedula]) and between wild columbids (collared doves [ Streptopelia decaocto], rock doves [ Columba livia], and wood pigeons [ Columba palumbus]). The prevalence and intensity of nematodes and coccidia in birds housed outdoors did not differ statistically from species housed indoors. Results indicate that captive and free-ranging birds may share parasites when closely related, but this would need to be confirmed by the study of adult specimens and molecular tests. Determining which parasites are present in captive and free-ranging species in zoological parks will support the establishment of effective husbandry practices to maintain the health status of managed species.

“Ask of the Beasts and They Shall Teach Thee”

AbstractPeople have been visiting zoos to look at non-human animals for almost two centuries. They observe a real animal, but what they see in their mind’s eye could be informed by how the animal is represented in the zoo’s guidebooks. Representations are rooted in two ways of looking: one positions the animal as an object of scientific study representative of his or her species, the other turns him or her into an individual animal with a life framed in terms of human experiences. Bristol Zoo Gardens, opened in 1836, offers a rich case study of the value of guidebooks because of its long history and surviving sources. The article begins by highlighting the theoretical approach adopted before applying it by reviewing the objectification and anthropomorphism of different animals over the chronological range of guidebooks. It then interrogates the depiction of gender roles to illuminate this style of representation.

SUMMER AND WINTER VITAMIN D3 LEVELS IN SEVEN PLATYRRHINE SPECIES HOUSED AT A BRITISH ZOO, WITH REFERENCE TO NATURAL UVB LEVELS.

Serum samples were collected from 24 platyrrhines of seven diurnal species housed with outdoor access at Bristol Zoo Gardens (United Kingdom) to test 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD3) levels as part of the veterinary department's preventative health care program. Samples were collected in August 2008 (summer) and January 2009 (winter) to examine the effect of season on 25OHD3 levels. Dietary levels of vitamin D3 remained the same throughout the study period and fell within the range of 2000-4000 IU/kg dry matter, in accordance with current primate guidelines. Statistical analysis showed that there was no significant difference between the platyrrhines' summer 25OHD3 values (range, <4.0->150.0 μg/L) and winter 25OHD3 values (range, <4.0-80.1 μg/L). However, ultraviolet B (UVB) measurements taken at the zoo during the study period confirmed that UVB levels were significantly higher in summer (mean reading for 1200-1300 hours GMT time period, 153.8 μW/cm2) compared with winter (mean reading for 1200-1300 hours GMT time period, 19.4 μW/cm2). The 25OHD3 levels measured were generally found to be low compared with previously published values from healthy captive and wild platyrrhines.

SUMMER AND WINTER VITAMIN D3 LEVELS IN FOUR LEMUR SPECIES HOUSED AT A BRITISH ZOO, WITH REFERENCE TO UVB LEVELS.

Serum samples were collected from 18 lemurs of four diurnal/cathemeral species housed with outdoor access at Bristol Zoo Gardens (United Kingdom) to test 25-hydroxy-vitamin D3 (25OHD3) levels as part of the veterinary department's preventative health care program. Samples were collected from each lemur in August 2008 (summer) and January 2009 (winter) to examine the effect of season on 25OHD3 levels. The lemurs were fed commercial primate food and a range of fruit and vegetables, and dietary levels of vitamin D3 remained the same throughout the study period. Statistical analysis showed that the lemurs' summer 25OHD3 values (range 26.7 to >150.0 μg/L) were significantly higher than their winter 25OHD3 values (range 11.4-87.1 μg/L). UVB measurements taken during the study period confirmed that UVB levels were significantly higher in summer (mean reading for 1200-1300 GMT time period 153.8 μW/cm2) compared to winter (mean reading for 1200-1300 GMT time period 19.4 μW/cm2). The 25OHD3 levels measured were generally found to be high compared to previously published values from wild (free-ranging) lemurs in Madagascar. The most likely explanation for this was the higher vitamin D3 content of the captive lemurs' diet, as UVB levels at the zoo (latitude 51° north) are substantially lower than those that occur in Madagascar (latitude 12°-26° south). No evidence of vitamin D toxicity or deficiency was found in any of the captive lemurs. The results indicate that vitamin D3 levels in lemurs housed with outdoor access in the United Kingdom and by extension, other regions of similar latitude, vary with seasonal environmental UVB levels, in a similar way to the seasonal variations in vitamin D3 observed in humans living in these regions, but that vitamin D levels in this captive lemur population were adequate compared to wild lemur levels, even in winter.

Habitat selection and use in the Critically Endangered Sahamalaza sportive lemur Lepilemur sahamalazensis in altered habitat

ESR Endangered Species Research Contact the journal Facebook Twitter RSS Mailing List Subscribe to our mailing list via Mailchimp HomeLatest VolumeAbout the JournalEditorsSpecials ESR 24:273-286 (2014) - DOI: https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00596 Habitat selection and use in the Critically Endangered Sahamalaza sportive lemur Lepilemur sahamalazensis in altered habitat Melanie Seiler1,2, Marc Holderied2, Christoph Schwitzer1,* 1Bristol Zoological Society, c/o Bristol Zoo Gardens, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3HA, UK 2School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, Bristol BS8 1UG, UK *Corresponding author: cschwitzer@bcsf.org.uk ABSTRACT: Habitat selection and use by primates is influenced by the trade-off between distribution of foraging resources and predation risk. So far, there are published studies on habitat use for 2 out of 26 sportive lemur species, but none document habitat selection. We studied habitat in home ranges as well as feeding preferences and nightly activity budgets in the Sahamalaza sportive lemur Lepilemur sahamalazensis. We describe the habitat structure of home ranges located in 4 forest fragments in Madagascar with varying habitat characteristics after following 8 radio-tagged individuals for a total of 666 h at night. With the limitation of small sample size, our results suggest that Sahamalaza sportive lemurs choose the locations of their home ranges on the basis of different habitat variables, with abundance of sleeping sites and feeding trees as well as tree density and canopy cover being the most important factors. The Sahamalaza sportive lemur is a highly folivorous generalist herbivore, feeding on at least 42 different tree species and preferring the abundant species Clitoria lasciva, Mangifera indica, Garcinia pauciflora and Sorindeia madagascariensis. It has prolonged times of resting during its activity periods. Our results imply that despite its habitat selectivity, even the most degraded fragments on the Sahamalaza Peninsula still adequately meet the species’ habitat requirements. However, the small extent of the remaining forest and ongoing deforestation, forest degradation and poaching call the future survival of this Critically Endangered species into question. KEY WORDS: Habitat selection · Feeding ecology · Activity budget · Habitat requirements · Sportive lemur · Critically Endangered Full text in pdf format PreviousCite this article as: Seiler M, Holderied M, Schwitzer C (2014) Habitat selection and use in the Critically Endangered Sahamalaza sportive lemur Lepilemur sahamalazensis in altered habitat. Endang Species Res 24:273-286. https://doi.org/10.3354/esr00596 Export citation RSS - Facebook - Tweet - linkedIn Cited by Published in ESR Vol. 24, No. 3. Online publication date: June 13, 2014 Print ISSN: 1863-5407; Online ISSN: 1613-4796 Copyright © 2014 Inter-Research.

A “delightful resort for persons of all ages, and more especially for the young”: Children at Bristol Zoo Gardens, 1835–1940

Bristol Zoo Gardens has provided a leisure space for people of all ages since it first opened to the public on July 11, 1836. Changes in that space over time reflect the management’s evolving priorities. The story is generally one of increasing provision of activities specifically aimed at children, both for education and entertainment, particularly from the turn of the twentieth century. This has resulted in the common conception of zoos as primarily places for young visitors. Examining the experiences of children themselves shows how they have responded to this provision and how they have appropriated space for their own enjoyment. This article contributes to the growing discipline of childhood studies by exploring the place of children in zoological gardens, using Bristol as a case study. Making the most of the very limited sources depicting children’s perspectives (an essay and postcards written by children) in combination with sources created by adults (minute books, correspondence, guidebooks, and newspaper articles), the article makes some preliminary observations about the extent of children’s agency in the Zoo and about how children’s experiences have differed from the expectations of their seniors in providing a space for children to enjoy.

Notes from a VN abroad – North Sulawesi, Indonesia

Click to increase image sizeClick to decrease image size Additional informationNotes on contributorsAdina Valentine Notes from a VN abroad – North Sulawesi, IndonesiaAll authorsAdina Valentine RVN MBVNA Cert Exoticshttps://doi.org/10.1111/j.2045-0648.2012.00232.xPublished online:21 November 2014Display full sizeAdina ValentineRVN MBVNA Cert ExoticsAdina qualified three years ago and now works in general practice and at the Bristol Zoo Gardens. She is the owner of two spoilt ‘moggies’, two feisty snakes and a fluffy German shepherd dog. Her main veterinary interests include exotics, anaesthesia, welfare and ethics, conservation and education.

Management of White-naped pheasant pigeon Otidiphaps nobilis aruensis at Barcelona Zoo

The knowledge gathered from keeping and breeding White-naped pheasant pigeons Otidiphaps nobilis aruensis at Barcelona Zoo over the last 22 years is presented. Housing, diet, breeding and general information about the husbandry of the species are described. In March 1988, five pheasant pigeons [2.2.1 (♂.♀.?)] confiscated by Spanish Authorities arrived at Barcelona Zoo. On 23 August 1992 the first chick hatched and since then 65 chicks have hatched. At the time of writing Barcelona Zoo maintains 17·6 birds. Several birds hatched at the Zoo have been transferred to other European institutions, such as Zoo Krefeld and Weltvogelpark Walsrode in Germany, Bristol Zoo Gardens and Chester Zoo in the UK, Zoobotanico Jerez in Spain, Copenhagen Zoo in Denmark, Jardim Zoologico de Lisboa in Portugal and Vogelpark Avifauna in Alphen in the Netherlands, contributing to the European population, which comprises 26·12·4 birds at nine zoos, plus 3·2 birds at two zoos in the USA. A European studbook was established in 2001 and it has been managed and monitored since then by Weltvogelpark Walsrode. We hope this information will contribute to better management and improved breeding of White-naped pheasant pigeons in European zoos.

Redefining and developing exotic animal medicine

Redefining and developing exotic animal medicine

The captive breeding and educational display of the Medicinal leech Hirudo medicinalis (Linnaeus 1758) at Bristol Zoo Gardens

This paper provides information on the culture of the Medicinal leech Hirudo medicinalis, including housing and environmental requirements, husbandry protocols and captive breeding. The conservation status of the Medicinal leech and issues surrounding its preservation, and also uses for this species in medicine and as an educational‐display subject, are discussed. This species has been maintained at Bristol Zoo Gardens, UK, from May 1996 to the present and has been bred successfully since 2001. The Medicinal leeches that are used in both the husbandry trials and educational display at Bristol Zoo Gardens originated from Turkish stock and were obtained from Biopharm UK Ltd, Dyfed, UK.

Calodium hepaticum (syn. Capillaria hepatica) in Captive Rodents in a Zoological Garden

Calodium hepaticum infection was diagnosed in the Bristol Zoo Gardens in 13 captive rodents of four species that died or were humanely killed over a 40-month period. Of these infected animals, nine were black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomus ludovicianus), representing 45% of the members of this species examined during the study. A wild rat (Rattus norvegicus) found dead in an enclosure was also infected. To date few cases of C. hepaticum infection have been reported in the UK. The number of cases diagnosed in this urban zoo may be explained by the potentially high prevalence of infection in urban rat populations and increased risk of exposure of zoo animals kept in enclosures to which rats have access. As C. hepaticum is potentially zoonotic, members of staff in zoos should be careful to avoid soil-to-mouth contact, particularly in prairie dog enclosures.