An investigation into the prevalence of exploratory behavior in captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus)

Abstract

Exploratory behavior in the wild is fundamentally linked to an animal's survival and natural life history. The ability to gather information about their environment, establish territories, assert dominance, communicate information regarding reproductive status and locate mates are closely associated with a range of exploratory behaviors. Understanding how these behaviors are performed within the captive setting is crucial in order to create a captive environment in which these behaviors can be expressed, and their function conserved. The objective of this research was to highlight the factors of captive husbandry and management that influence the occurrence of exploratory behaviour of cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) in captivity. One hundred and twelve cheetahs in 88 enclosures across nine zoological institutions in five countries were the subjects of this study. The presence of raised areas, number of movements between enclosures, group composition, sex and an interaction between group composition and the ability to view cheetahs in adjacent enclosures, all significantly influenced the prevalence of exploratory behavior in captive cheetahs. The presence of raised areas and an increasing number of movements between enclosures significantly increased the probability of observing exploratory behaviour, while this probability was significantly decreased for female cheetahs, when cheetahs were able to view conspecifics in adjacent enclosures, and were maintained in groups. A number of recommendations are discussed in relation to promoting exploratory behavior in captive cheetahs.

Intrinsic factors, adrenal gland morphology, and disease burden in captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) in South Africa

“…Yet, cheetahs may not experience stress principally because they are kept in captivity, but when they are kept in close contact with conspecifics [Clauss et al, ; Troxell‐Smith and Miller, ]. Close proximity to conspecifics was suggested as the cause of reproductive failure [Jurke et al, ] and cheetahs kept in groups show more hormonal and behavioral abnormalities than those kept individually [Quirke and O'Riordan, , ]. Managing diseases such as gastritis and myocardial fibrosis (and possibly glomerulosclerosis and systemic amyloidosis) in captive cheetahs likely therefore depends on prevention, early detection, and alleviation of these stressors.…”

Effects of a modern exhibit design on captive tiger welfare

“…Giving the animals themselves the option to move between exhibits has many benefits such as increasing available space, stimulating natural behavior, and empowering animal choice. Several studies have suggested that giving animals choice over their environment is critical to achieving good welfare (Johnson & Langton, 2021; Lukas et al, 2003; Owen et al, 2005; Quirke & O'Riordan, 2015; Ross, 2011). Providing options to seek and freely enter multiple locations within a larger exhibit can serve as a form of enrichment that enhances welfare (Mench, 1998; Ross, 2006; Young, 2013).…”

The effects of intrinsic enrichment on captive felids

“…The introduction of intrinsic enrichment, such as new objects and scents into the captive environment, can increase exploration and stimulate territorial behaviors, such as scent marking, while also improving psychological well‐being (Quirke & O'Riordan, ; Tarou & Bashaw, ; Wells, ; Wells & Egli, ). Wells and Egli () introduced three different types of odors to black‐footed cats ( Felis nigripes ) and observed an increase in activity and exploration.…”