Enrichment Objects Research Articles

Enrichments Adjusted to the Number of Litters: Simple Approach to Improve the Welfare of Weaned Piglets under Farm Conditions.

Environmental enrichment is one of the methods used to reduce conflicts at weaning, which erupt when mixing unknown litters and are known to negatively affect growth and welfare of piglets. Here we aimed to test a simple approach of increasing the amount of existing enrichment objects to mitigate post-weaning aggression. The experiment comprised ten groups of piglets (five controls, five tests) with 3-4 litters weaned in each of them. In the control group, a red hanging plastic object (biting ring) and a piece of spruce wood (7 cm × 7 cm × 30 cm) were used for enrichment. In the test group, the enrichment was multiplied according to the number of weaned litters (one toy and one piece of wood was provided per each mixed litter). On days 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14 after weaning, behaviours (negative social behaviours, pen equipment-directed and enrichment-directed behaviours) and injuries (on different parts of the body, tail lesions, lameness) were recorded. On day 21 after weaning, the overall welfare status of the piglets was assessed using the Welfare Quality® protocol for pigs. A significant (4-fold) increase in the enrichment-directed behaviours was observed in the test group (p < 0.001). Consequently, there were 3.5 times fewer negative social behaviours (p < 0.001), 38-52% fewer injuries on different body parts (p < 0.001) and higher overall welfare status of the piglets in the test group. Adjusting enrichment to the number of weaned litters proved to be an effective solution to reduce aggression at weaning and improve piglets' welfare. The study provides important information on the use of enrichment material in commercial weaner pens and demonstrates the possibility of significantly improving pig welfare with low effort, input and cost.

Exploring pet rat care: A comprehensive survey of husbandry, health, behavior, and the associations between caretaker attitudes, attachment, and husbandry practices

Pet rats are still understudied in terms of animal welfare and human-animal interaction research. An extensive online survey targeting German-speaking rat caretakers was conducted (n = 978). One of the study's goals was to investigate husbandry practices, health indicators, rat behaviors that suggest either good or compromised welfare, as well as elements of the human-animal relationship, including interactions between humans and animals, caretaker attitudes, and attachment. The second aim was to explore the associations between caretaker attitudes and attachment, and caretaker behavior, encompassing routine health checks, interactions between humans and animals, as well as the activities and enrichment provided to rats. In some instances, welfare issues were identified: insufficient space (evident in 10.6% of rats), provision of unhealthy snacks (14.6%). The vast majority of rats enjoyed a variety of enrichment objects, e.g., huts/houses (98.4%), nesting material (92.7%), hammocks (91.7%), and tunnels/tubes (83.7%). The average amount of space and time provided for roaming in case of no permanent roaming possibility (13.9 m2 and 2.5 h per day) was positive in terms of welfare. About 79.0% of rats did not suffer from a disease diagnosed by a veterinarian. Repetitive behaviors, which may represent stereotypies, were uncommon (plucking out own fur and cage bar chewing occurred “never” in 99.1% and 81.5%). Indicators of good welfare (e.g., self-grooming, rearing, eye-boggling) were observed several times/day in 89.6%, 46.7%, and 11.6% respectively. Caretakers who formed strong bonds with their rats tended to express positive general attitudes (such as finding rats ‘‘lovable’’ and ‘‘fun’’), while showing little agreement with statements reflecting negative attitudes (like considering rats ‘‘dirty’’). About 84.4% reported stroking their rat, 94.9% reported talking to it, and 70.9% mentioned hand-feeding their rat several times per day. Caretaker attitudes and attachment and human-animal interactions and caretaker behaviors correlated weakly but consistently (P < 0.01): respondents who felt more comfortable during positive interactions, stroked, hand-fed their rats, offered rat-friendly enrichment and performed health checks more often. In contrast, higher agreement to rats being ‘‘dirty’’ related to less frequent health checks and less frequent positive human-animal interactions. The identified relationships between caretaker attitudes and behaviors can help design interventions to promote caretaker behavior that is beneficial for rat welfare.

Effects of simple cage enrichment and its removal on the behavior and welfare of American mink (Neogale vison)

ABSTRACT Environmental enrichment may reduce stereotypies in fur-farmed mink. North American mink standards require manipulable enrichment objects within cages. However, mink can rapidly destroy objects inhibiting continuous enrichment presence, which may have negative welfare impacts. This experimental study determined the effects of removing simple cage manipulable enrichments (plastic chains and dumbbells), either short-term or longer-term, on the behavioral expression of welfare in fur-farmed mink. Locomotor stereotypies, normal activity, sub-types of inactivity related to boredom, and tail fur-chewing were recorded across four treatment groups with either (1) no enrichment, (2) continuous enrichment, (3) short (temporary), or (4) long-term enrichment removal. Contrary to predictions, locomotor stereotypies, and scrabbling were not reduced by the enrichments, nor affected by the enrichment removal. Observations at the beginning of the trial showed the non-enriched mink spent the least amount of time lying with their eyes open (i.e., the least bored). The lack of enrichment may have increased fur-chewing on the tail, but larger sample sizes would be needed for statistical confirmation. This research contributes to the literature on evaluating simple, practical enrichments for improving fur-farmed mink welfare.

Utilization of enrichment objects by growing pigs in a commercial facility and the impact on behavior and skin lesions

Environmental enrichment is a way to provide growing pigs with a complex environment to explore and occupy themselves as they grow. Single point enrichment can provide some complexity to the environment while not having the drawbacks of substrate enrichment, including labor, biosecurity, and lack of infrastructure. To expand our knowledge into the type of point enrichments that pigs engage with, as well as the effects the objects have on lesion counts and behavior, a single point enrichment object was placed into each of the 129 pens, containing 27.1 ± 2.9 pigs per pen, in a conventional fully slatted wean-to-finish facility. The nine treatments included AllBite™ blocks, Bite-Rite™, chains, branched chains, Green Apple Porcichews®, Yellow Vanilla Porcichews®, cotton rope, EasyFix® Luna, and nothing. Interactions with the objects and activity level were monitored by scan sampling and skin lesions were measured by direct enumeration of scratches. Behavioral observation was conducted using the focal follow technique with an ethogram encompassing fighting, scampering, floor nosing, belly nosing, biting, and tail biting. Data collection took place in the 50 days after placement of enrichment objects. The proportion of pigs interacting with the enrichment object was lowest for chain (1.95 ± 0.13%) and highest for rope (6.63 ± 0.41%) (P < 0.011). A significant object-by-day interaction was observed for pigs at the objects (P <.001) with popularity of objects waning over time. There was a significant object by day interaction on the proportion of pigs in a pen that were standing (P <.001). There was also a significant object by day interaction for skin lesions (P<.001) with skin lesions leveling out by the end of the study but objects generally decreasing lesion counts in the first third of the study. Enrichment objects showed no significant effect on the observed behaviors. These findings suggest that the choice of point enrichment object can influence the level of interaction, level of interest over time, activity level, and skin lesions in growing pigs. Future work should investigate the practicality of these objects and farmer willingness and ability to provide them.

A Practical Approach to Providing Environmental Enrichment to Pigs and Broiler Chickens Housed in Intensive Systems.

In Europe, regulations contain guidance to maintain high standards of animal welfare. In many parts of the world, large buyers for supermarkets or restaurants are the main enforcers of basic animal welfare standards. They can have considerable influence on improving standards on large commercial farms. Research clearly shows that straw is one of the most effective environmental enrichment for pigs. On some large farms, there are concerns that straw will either clog waste management systems or bring in disease. This paper contains a review of both scientific research and practical experience with enrichment devices that are easy to implement. Pigs prefer enrichment objects that they can chew up and deform. Broiler chickens prefer to climb up on objects, hide under them or peck them. It is always essential to uphold basic welfare standards such as animal cleanliness and low levels of lameness (difficulty walking). It is also important to reduce lesions, and maintain body conditions of breeding animals. An environment enrichment device is never a substitute for poorly managed facilities. It should enhance animal welfare on well-managed farms.

Environmental enrichment for reptiles in European zoos: Current status and perspectives.

Zoos and aquaria are paying increasing attention to environmental enrichment, which has proven an effective tool for the improvement of animal welfare. However, several ongoing issues have hampered progress in environmental enrichment research. Foremost among these is the taxonomic bias, which hinders our understanding of the value of enrichment for neglected groups, such as reptiles. In this study, we evaluated the status of environmental enrichment for reptiles in European zoos using a survey approach. A total of 121 zoos (32% response rate) completed our main survey, focusing on the use of different enrichment types for reptiles. We found significant differences in the use and/or type of enrichment between reptile groups. Tortoises (family Testudinidae) and monitor lizards (genus Varanus) were the most enriched taxa while venomous snakes were the least. The enrichment types most used across taxa were structural/habitat design and dietary. A second, more detailed, questionnaire followed, where participants were questioned about specific enrichment techniques. A total of 42 enrichment methods were reported, with two being represented across all taxa: increasing structural/thermal complexity and enrichment objects. Finally, we present information from participating zoos on enrichment goals, assessment methods, sources of information for enrichment ideas, and whether enrichment for reptiles is considered essential and/or implemented routinely. Results suggest that, although usage is widespread across European zoos, our understanding of enrichment for reptiles needs to be re-evaluated, since many of the techniques reported tread a fine line between basic husbandry and actual enrichment.

REPRODUCTIVE CAPACITY AND FLOWERING INTENSITY OF DECORATIVE SPECIES OF THE GENUS LUPINUS L. IN THE CONDITIONS OF THE ARCHITECTURAL AND EXPOSITION AREA OF VNAU

Based on the analysis of scientific sources, information on the origin, distribution, taxonomy and use of promising ornamental plants of the genus Lupinus L. in Ukraine and the world is presented. A wide range of decorative and valuable features of various types of plants of the Lupinus L. genus, which are valuable decorative, essential oil, medicinal, honey-bearing, vitamin, and fodder plants, have been determined. However, as a result of significant anthropogenic influence, the gene pool of these groups of plants is steadily decreasing from year to year, as a result of which the issue of developing biological and ecological bases for the introduction and introduction into industrial culture of species of the genus Lupinus L., adapted to the climatic conditions of the Podillia zone, has become urgent. The perspective of using decorative species of the genus Lupinus L. in landscaping has been proven. Recommendations for their cultivation have been developed, the optimal terms and methods of seed and vegetative reproduction and use in the landscaping of Vinnytsia Region have been established. It has been determined that the expansion of the assortment of flower-decorative lupins today occurs mainly as a result of a spontaneous process and does not always have a positive result. However, the collection of data on the introduction of plants helps to determine the degree of adaptation of the species to the new growing conditions, to establish its ecological plasticity, which will ensure its normal development in these conditions. The greatest scientific interest is the decorative species of lupine, which are widely used in urban planning, park construction, landscaping and city improvement. It was analyzed that the genus Lupinus includes about 200 species of annual and perennial plants. Almost all of them grow in America. There are 10 species in Europe, all of the same age. Of the perennial species in culture, tree-shaped lupine (L. arboreus Sims.) is more often found. bicolor: 'Abendglut', 'Albus', 'Apricot', 'Carmineus', 'Neue Spielarten', 'Prinzess Juliana', 'Roseus', 'Rubinkonig'. The studied cultivars of Lupinus Polyphyllus Lindl are characterized by significant color diversity. Most varieties and hybrids have a summer-autumn type of vegetation. It has been established that the multi-leaved lupine enters the budding phase from the first half of June with a duration of 10-14 days. According to the results of experimental studies of laboratory and field germination of freshly collected seeds of introduced cultivars of lupine, it was established that in the light and in the dark, the highest rate of germination energy was recorded in the plots of 'Prinzess Juliana' (56 and 57%, respectively) and seed germination (83 and 75%, respectively) at seed moisture content of 6%. In view of the above, the decorative species Lupinus Polyphyllus Lindl, due to the variety of colors, different periods of flowering, the height of the plants, the stability of the leaves, which grow relatively early and are preserved until the end of the growing season, are quite valuable plants for decorative gardening. From a practical point of view, the studied cultivars ('Albus', 'Apricot', 'Prinzess Juliana', 'Roseus', 'Rubinkonig', 'Abendglut', 'Carmineus' and 'Neue Spielarten') are of interest as potentially valuable objects for enrichment of the assortment of decorative plants of Ukraine and are promising for creating garden compositions on the basis of Vinnytsia National Agrarian University.

An Evaluation of Ethograms Measuring Distinct Features of Enrichment Use by Captive Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes).

Simple SummaryEnvironmental enrichment for chimpanzees is important in order to minimize boredom and stress in captivity and to provide opportunities to engage in species-typical behaviors. However, few studies have investigated potential associations between enrichment objects, manipulation behaviors, and social contexts, nor have they examined if individual chimpanzees vary in their enrichment object preferences. In the current study, three ethograms were used to code the use of enrichment objects, engagement in manipulation behaviors, and social contexts of enrichment use of captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes). Data mining from a video archive consisting of 2054 videos collected over a decade allowed the ethograms to be applied to 732 min and 58 s of videos. Some enrichment objects were more often associated with specific manipulation behaviors and social contexts, indicating that enrichment objects might serve distinct social and behavioral purposes. The chimpanzees differed in their enrichment object preferences, suggesting that caregivers of captive chimpanzees should consider individual needs when providing enrichment in order to improve chimpanzees’ experiences in captivity. Finally, the majority of enrichment object use and manipulation behaviors were able to be categorized, indicating that our ethograms were largely effective in coding enrichment use.Environmental enrichment provides mental stimulation and minimizes abnormal behaviors in captive animals. In captive chimpanzees, individual animals may vary in the ways in which they benefit from enrichment or use enrichment devices, so investigating nuances in enrichment use may improve the welfare of captive chimpanzees. In the current study, three ethograms measuring distinct features of enrichment use (i.e., enrichment object, manipulation behavior, and social context) were evaluated by coding videos of captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) at Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest in Cle Elum, WA. A total of 732 min and 58 s of video footage was coded from a larger video archive (i.e., 2054 videos) of enrichment use that spanned a decade. A principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that different categories of enrichment objects were more often associated with specific manipulation behaviors and social contexts, suggesting that enrichment objects might fulfill different behavioral and social needs in captivity. Specifically, toy objects were associated with active tactile behaviors in affiliative contexts while oral behaviors were used with foraging objects in solitary contexts. Additionally, individual chimpanzees showed unique preferences for enrichment objects, indicating that caregivers of captive chimpanzees should consider individual needs instead of a “one size fits all” approach to enrichment provisions.

Environmental enrichment in dairy goats in a semi-arid region: Thermoregulatory and behavioral responses

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of environmental enrichment on the thermoregulatory and behavioral responses of goats raised in semi-arid conditions. 12 Saanen goats lactating, aged between 2 and 4 years, clinically healthy with a mean body weight of 31.4 ± 1.65 kg and body condition score between 2.0 and 2.5 were used. The types of enriched environments used were: 1) without environmental enrichment (control); 2) classical music;3) PET plastic bottles with corn;4) suspended tires;5) logs of wood; and 6) all objects simultaneously. The air temperature, black globe tempeature and humidity index, and radiant heat load were higher (P < 0.05) during treatment with all objects simultaneously. The respiratory rate (RR) was higher (P = 0.001) in the control treatment compared to those with environmental enrichment. The rectal temperature (RT) was higher in the control and acoustic groups (P < 0.05), however it was lower with all objects. The coat surface temperature (CST) was higher (P < 0.01) in the control group and lower in the treatment with music, tires, logs of wood, PET bottles and all objects. The behaviors lying down, drinking water, urination, ruminating while standing, and defecating were similar (P > 0.05) between treatments. The first two discriminant functions were significant (F1 and F2: P < 0.001) and discriminated 93.40% of the data variation. A static pattern was observed in the classification of goats in their group of origin for thermoregulatory and behavioral responses when a single type of enrichment was used with the formation of two more groups: (i) goats which had access to all enrichments simultaneously; and (ii) the control group. The offer of the diversity of various objects for environmental enrichment positively contributed to the thermoregulatory and behavioral responses, thereby providing well-being to the animals.

Comparison of growth and developmental stability traits of Japanese quails reared in conventional and enriched cages

This study was carried out to determine the effects of different rearing systems on some performance and welfare characteristics in Japanese quail. For this purpose, a total of 630 birds were housed in battery-type conventional cages, conventional floor cages and enriched floor cages. There were statistically significant differences between the experimental groups and the sexes in terms of the average body weight of the quails at 42 and 56 days of age (both P&amp;lt;0.01). Accordingly, it was determined that the average body weight of the quails raised in the conventional battery cages were higher than those raised both in the conventional and enriched floor cages. Gompertz growth curve model parameters of β0, β1, β2 were estimated as 262.05, 3.76, 0.050 for birds housed in battery-type conventional cages, 228.12, 3.57, 0.042 for birds housed in conventional floor cages, and 252.53, 3.86, 0.045 for birds housed in enriched floor cages, respectively. Among the bilateral traits, the highest mean value of relative asymmetry was found for wing length of birds reared in conventional battery type cages (P&amp;lt;0.01). As a result, it was determined that quails raised in conventional battery type cages are more advantageous for economic production. However, it may be recommended to use enrichment objects for an animal welfare oriented production system.

Measuring Calves' Usage of Multiple Environmental Enrichment Objects Provided Simultaneously.

This study aims to assess calf usage of five potential enrichment devices provided simultaneously. We used 25 weaned Holstein-Friesian calves housed in groups of five (five replicates), and their behavior was recorded continuously with video cameras. This longitudinal observational study used a pen equipped with a mechanical and fixed brush, cowhide, and horizontal and vertical ropes. Data collected included how many visits each object received per day, the type of object usage, and the duration of the visits. Calves used all five objects at least once, and they used items more during the daytime than at night. Brushes were used mainly for grooming (e.g., rubbing or scratching), while ropes and cowhide for oral interactions (e.g., licking, chewing, and biting), most likely to lack oral stimulations that would naturally be satisfied by suckling and grazing at this age. The objects most frequently used were the mechanical brush and the horizontal rope, and they received the highest number of visits (214.9 and 154.9 bouts/day, respectively). The least chosen object was the stationary brush, which had the lowest number of visits (62.9 bouts/day). The provision of multiple enrichment objects for weaned calves should be considered as they may add complexity and novelty to barren environments.

Environmental Enrichment for Pig welfare during Transport

ABSTRACT This study aimed to assess the effects of environmental enrichment for pigs during transportation in different phases of their productive cycle. Two trials were conducted, the first during transportation of pigs from the piglet production unit (PPU) to the nursery (n = 250) and the second during the transportation of nonhuman animals from the finishing unit (FU) to the slaughterhouse (n = 120). This work was an observational study with five environmental enrichments: Control – no enrichment; object – use of enrichment objects in the truck; aroma – use of lavender aroma in the truck; music – music in the truck; and vehicle sound. Animal behavior during transportation, respiratory rate, skin surface temperature, and skin lesion score were assessed. Piglets from the treatment music had the lowest frequency of agonistic behaviors during transportation from the farrowing to the nursery and lower skin temperature after transportation. Piglets from the control had the highest respiratory rate prior to transportation. Pigs familiarized with vehicle noises spent most of their time lying during the trip to the slaughterhouse. The creation of a familiar environment to pigs seems promising in enhancing animal well-being during transportation.

Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Seven Measures to Reduce Tail Biting Lesions in Fattening Pigs.

Tail biting is an important animal welfare issue in the pig sector. Studies have identified various risk factors which can lead to biting incidents and proposed mitigation measures. This study focused on the following seven key measures which have been identified to affect the risk of tail biting lesions: improvements in straw provision, housing ventilation, genetics, stocking density, herd health, provision of point-source enrichment objects, and adoption of early warning systems. The aim of this study was to examine whether these selected measures to reduce the risk of tail biting lesions in pig fattening are cost-effective. The problem was analyzed by first summarizing the most prospective interventions, their costs and expected impacts on the prevalence of tail biting lesions, second, by using a stochastic bio-economic model to simulate the financial return per pig space unit and per pig at different levels of prevalence of tail biting lesions, and third by looking at how large a reduction in tail biting lesions would be needed at different levels of initial prevalence of lesions to cover the costs of interventions. Tail biting lesions of a severity which would require an action (medication, hospitalization of the pig or other care, or taking preventive measures) by the pig producer were considered in the model. The results provide guidance on the expected benefits and costs of the studied interventions. According to the results, if the average prevalence of tail biting lesions is at a level of 10%, the costs of this damaging behavior can be as high as €2.3 per slaughtered pig (~1.6% of carcass value). Measures which were considered the least expensive to apply, such as provision of point-source enrichment objects, or provided wider production benefits, such as improvements in ventilation and herd health, became profitable at a lower level of efficacy than measures which were considered the most expensive to apply (e.g., straw provision, increased space allowance, automated early warning systems). Measures which were considered most efficient in reducing the risk of tail biting lesions, such as straw provision, can be cost-effective in preventing tail biting, especially when the risk of tail biting is high. At lower risk levels, the provision of point-source objects and other less costly but relatively effective measures can play an important role. However, selection of measures appropriate to the individual farm problem is essential. For instance, if poor health or barren pens are causing the elevated risk of tail biting lesions, then improving health management or enriching the pens may resolve the tail biting problem cost-effectively.

Environmental enrichment strategies for weaned pigs: Welfare and behavior

ABSTRACT This research aims to evaluate the effects of different types and strategies of environmental enrichment for weaned pigs on behavior. Forty weaned piglets aged 21 to 28 days were distributed in a completely randomized design in five treatments: without enrichment object, full-time cognitive enrichment, intermittent cognitive enrichment, alternate cognitive and sensory enrichment every 24 hours, and alternate cognitive and sensory enrichment every 48 hours. Behavioral observations were made for 15 days considering pig as experimental unit. Pigs of control and continuous cognitive enrichment treatments were submitted to human approach test, novel arena test, and novel object test. Pigs kept in an unstimulated environment show a higher frequency of unwanted behaviors compared to pigs in other treatments regardless of enrichment type. Pigs with alternation of enrichment type every 24 hours showed a longer interaction time with enrichment objects. Enrichment objects in rearing environment during nursery phase reduced undesirable behaviors and reactivity to unknown situations. Strategies such as alternating the type of enrichment every 24 or 48 hours are effective in maintaining the novelty and the animals’ interest.

Short-Term Impact of Point-Source Enrichment on the Behavior of Gestating Sows Housed in Groups

Environmental enrichment is an important strategy to improve the welfare of farm animals. However, relatively little is known about enrichment for gestating sows, especially those raised on farms with slatted floors and for which provision of straw may be difficult. The objective of this study was therefore to investigate the short-term (4 d) impact of a point-source enrichment object on the behavior of gestating sows housed in group pens. Four pens of gestating sows on a university research farm were randomly allocated to receive either enrichment or no enrichment (control) in a 2 by 2 crossover design. Time budgets were established by video recording focal sows' behaviors (n = 10 focals per pen) every 15 min between 0800 and 1500 every day. Enrichment use was further characterized by continuous behavior sampling for a 1 h interval between 0830 and 0930 each day. The impact of parity, lameness and presence of stereotypical behavior such as sham chewing on enrichment use was evaluated. Over the course of the study, focal sows spent approximately 73% of observations inactive [either lying down (70%), standing (2%), or sitting (1%)]. Within the remaining observations, sows were most commonly observed sham-chewing (16%), followed by 3% exploring, 2% feeding, 2% walking and 1% interacting with the enrichment when it was available. Low-parity sows, moderately-lame sows, and sows observed sham chewing at baseline displayed more consistent enrichment use over the course of the study (p = 0.02, p &amp;lt; 0.01, p = 0.04, respectively). While no adverse behavioral effects (increased agonism or sham chewing) due to provision or removal of the enrichment object were observed and while 85% of sows were observed to interact with enrichment at least once, interest declined sharply after the first day. We conclude that further research is needed to identify effective and sustainable enrichment strategies for gestating sows.

Effect of stocking density and use of environmental enrichment materials on the welfare and the performance of pigs in the growth and finishing phases

Aim of study: To evaluate the effects of stocking density and the use of environmental enrichment (EE) objects on the welfare and the performance of pigs in the growing and finishing phases.Area of study: The southern region of Brazil.Material and methods: A total of 240 pigs, 120 immunocastrated males and 120 females, with an initial weight of 22.38 ± 2.38 kg and mean age of 65 days, were submitted to two stocking densities conditions (0.85 and 1.28 m²pig) with and without EE for 117 days. The experimental design was a 2×2×2 factorial (two categories, two densities, and two EE conditions), with six replicates. Performance variables and behavior were evaluated.Main results: For stocking density, there was a significant difference in the finishing phase from 148 to 161 days of age for the final weight (FW), average daily weight gain (ADWG), and feed conversion rate (FCR). For the EE factor, there was no difference in any of the phases or in the overall period. In the overall period, the higher availability of space improved the results of FW (140.56 kg vs 136.63 kg), ADWG (1.005 kg vs 0.974 kg), and FCR (2.05 vs 2.10). There was no effect of EE, stocking densities, or their interaction on the frequency of different behaviors of the pigs in the growth and finishing phases.Research highlights: There was no effect of interactions between enriched environments, stocking densities, and sex for animal performance and behavioral frequencies; however, differences between the factors were observed separately. The higher availability of space improved the results of FW, ADWG, and FCR.

Difference in exploration and use of PET bottle and horseshoe for environment enrichment in piglets

Article Details: Received: 2020-10-20 | Accepted: 2020-11-27 | Available online: 2021-01-31 https://doi.org/10.15414/afz.2021.24.mi-prap.62-66 Abstract Attractivity of two different enrichment objects was investigated in paper. Eight piglets were housed in pen with slatted floor. Pen environment was enriched with two hanging objects – PET bottle and horseshoe. Interactions with enrichment objects were evaluated during two consecutive days. PET bottle was more attractive, total number of interactions was 600 on day 1 and 451 on day 2. Horseshoe has very low attractiveness, number of interactions on day 1 was only 64 and 74 on day 2. Exploration of more attractive object was decreasing between days. Exploration of less attractive object was increasing. We recommend use of different enrichment objects for prolonged duration of exploration and occupation by manipulation, but both objects should be attractive for piglets. Keywords: environment, enrichment, piglets, keyword, keyword References Averos, X., et al. (2010). A meta-analysis of the combined effect of housing and environmental enrichment characteristics on the behaviour and performance of pigs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science , 127(3-4), 73–85. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2010.09.010 Bolt, S. L. and George, A. J. (2019). The use of environmental enrichment on farms benefits animal welfare and productivity. Livestock, 24(4), 183–188. https://doi.org/10.12968/live.2019.24.4.183 Buijs, S. and Muns, R. (2019). A Review of the Effects of Non-Straw Enrichment on Tail Biting in Pigs. Animals , 9(10), 824. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9100824 Chen, Ch. et al. (2020). A computer vision approach for recognition of the engagement of pigs with different enrichment objects. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture , 175, 105580. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compag.2020.105580 Council directive 2008/120/EC of 18 December 2008 laying down minimum standards for the protection of pigs. Available online: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2008/120/2019-12-14 (accessed on 15 October 2020). Elkmann, A. and Hoy, S. (2009). Frequency of occupation with different simultaneously offered devices by fattening pigs kept in pens with or without straw. Livestock Science, 124(1-3), 330–334. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.livsci.2008.12.008 Ernst, K. et al. (2018). Play behavior and environmental enrichment in pigs. Available online: https://www.wur.nl/upload_mm/e/f/b/6af2e2db-430e-4771-8f7d-6f5b974eab5e_final%20report%20ACT%202060%20juli%202018%20op%20website%20.pdf (accessed on 10 October 2020). Godyn, D. et al. (2019). Effects of environmental enrichment on pig welfare-A Review. Animals , 9(6), 383. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9060383 Jensen, P. (2002). The ethology of domestic animals . New York: CABI Publishing. Wood-Gush, D. G. M. and Beilharz, R. G. (1983). The enrichment of a bare environment for animals in confined conditions. Applied Animal Ethology , 10(3), 209–217. https://doi.org/10.1016/0304-3762(83)90142-6 Young, R. J. (2003). Enrichment for captive animals . Oxford, UK: Blackwell Science Ltd.

Enrichment strategy of object combination on the behaviour of growing pigs

This study was carried out to determine the effect of object combination as environmental enrichment on behaviour of growing pigs. Thirty-six (36) crossbreed (Large White X Landrace) growing pigs with average weight of 34-36Kg were allotted randomly into four treatments, replicated three times in a completely randomized design. The four treatments were; Control (without enrichment), PRope (2 pieces of polyester rope), treatment SWood (2 pieces of soft wood) and treatment PRope+SWood (1 piece of soft wood and 1 piece of polyester rope). Behavioural observations were monitored by CCTV and recordings were made for 6 hours/day and 3days/week. At the end of the experiment, data collected includes average feed intake and average weight gain while feed conversion ratio was calculated. Likewise, behavioural observations; enrichment use, general activities, pen manipulation and pen-mate manipulation were observed. Behavioural data were analyzed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) while performance data were analysed using one-way ANOVA. Performance data were significantly influenced (P&lt;0.05) by enrichments for all the parameters measured. PRope+SWood had the highest value for the final weight (50.63kg), average weight gain (15.95kg) and average feed intake (56.61kg) while PRope had the highest FCR 4.18). Penmate manipulation (10.48%), pen manipulation (19.02%) and general activities (14.62%) were lower and significantly better for PRope+SWood compared to PRope and SWood and the highest interaction with enrichment objects was observed in the PRope+SWood (55.88%). It can be concluded that the use of combination of enrichment objects enhanced the performance and behaviour of pigs.

Short communication: Preweaning socialization and environmental enrichment affect short-term performance after regrouping in commercially reared pigs

On-farm practices like premature weaning and frequent regrouping induce stress to pigs. Early socialization or environmental enrichment in piglets reduce weaning stress, as suggested in previous studies. Little research with both effects and in commercial settings was found. The aim was to investigate the effects of preweaning socialization and environmental enrichment on life-long performance in 661 Danbred pigs. Two treatments were distinguished during the suckling period: control (CON, 24 litters) and enriched (ENR, 24 litters). Control piglets were raised in barren farrowing pens; ENR piglets were provided with six enrichment objects from birth, and two neighboring litters were socialized from Day (D) 14. Pigs were regrouped on D25 (weaning) and D71 (fattening), while keeping the same treatment. Individual body weight was recorded on D1, 14, 23, 27, 31, 38, 69, 79, and after slaughter (carcass weight, CW). Pigs were slaughtered in six batches. Estimated slaughter weight (ESW) was calculated by CW × 1.25. Body weight, CW, and average daily gain (ADG) were analyzed by linear mixed models. Slaughter age was analyzed by Wilcox Rank-Sum test. Body weight and ESW were adjusted to non-linear models to obtain the predicted growth curves of CON and ENR, from birth to the targeted market weight (TMW, 105 kg). Average daily gain during the suckling, nursery, and fattening periods, and from birth to slaughter, did not differ between treatments. However, ADG of ENR when moving pigs from farrowing to nursery (4-day period) and from nursery to fattening (10-day period), revealed a better performance than CON (+20.6 g/day, P = 0.02; +53 g/day, P = 0.03, respectively). Enriched pigs tended to be slaughtered 2.8 days earlier than CON (P = 0.08). On the other hand, the predicted growth curves showed a non-significant 2-day window of reaching TMW between treatments (P = 0.23). Results suggested that enriching the neonatal environment improved the short-term performance after regrouping, and may benefit the life-long performance by reducing time to reach TMW.

Influence of environmental enrichment on the behavior of captive Ateles paniscus (Primates: Atelidae) in the Parque Zoobotânico Getúlio Vargas, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Técnicas de enriquecimento ambiental tornam o ambiente cativo mais interessante e agradável para os animais, aumentando o bem-estar e prevenindo o desenvolvimento de comportamentos anormais. Nesta pesquisa, avaliamos a influência de diferentes técnicas de enriquecimento no comportamento de dois indivíduos de Ateles paniscus mantidos cativos no Parque Zoobotânico Getúlio Vargas, Salvador, Brasil. O estudo foi dividido em cinco fases: controle; enriquecimento sensorial; enriquecimento social; enriquecimento alimentar e pós-enriquecimento. O método animal-focal com registro instantâneo foi utilizado para registrar os atos comportamentais exibidos nas diferentes fases de enriquecimento e estes foram comparados, quanto à sua frequência, com os exibidos na fase controle. Também foi comparada a frequência de uso dos artefatos introduzidos no recinto durante as fases sensorial e alimentar. De modo geral, não houve diferenças entre os atos comportamentais exibidos nas diferentes fases de enriquecimento, exceto durante a fase de enriquecimento alimentar do macho. Também não houve diferenças quanto ao uso dos artefatos. Contudo, os resultados evidenciam a influência de um ambiente enriquecido sobre a frequência de ocorrência dos comportamentos dos indivíduos. É possível que as condições do recinto e a presença dos visitantes exerçam influências negativas no comportamento dos indivíduos, de modo a não favorecer a redução efetiva dos comportamentos anormais observado.