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Behavioral Enrichment Every animal receives enrichment every day, with types of enrichment being varied on a regular schedule. Some items are food related which could include an unlikely food such as a pumpkin for a cougar (in addition to his regular diet) or a normal diet served in an unusual way. A coyote may find her diet inside a bag, suspended from the roof. It will require some planning to eventually get it down. Bears may come across large “ice cubes” with fruit locked inside. Huge claws can be surprisingly adept at picking out even individual berries from these novel presentations. Time spent acquiring these treats is time not spent pacing or in other unhealthy behaviors. Sensory items are enjoyed by many residents and sometimes it is the scent of one animal that is offered to another. Manure laden hay from the pasture is very interesting to the wolves, for example, and hair combed from the livestock guard dogs can make a soft nest for the squirrels. Perfumes, herbs and other scents can be placed on items in the exhibits encouraging exploration.
Zoo sanctuary supporters are encouraged to bring items for their favorite animal(s) and can make several of the items that are used frequently. Directions can be found here. It is important to remember that BE items be safe. All enrichment items must be approved by Zoo staff–safety for each animal is the primary consideration, followed by their “likes”. Animals cannot be given any items that might cause harm. Consider the following: can an animal get caught in it, cut or injured by it, can it fall on an animal or might they get trapped inside, can it lead to an escape, can it cause damage to the exhibit, is it toxic and is there enough for everyone to avoid fighting. In most cases, if an animal was in danger it is not possible to simply go in and take something away. If you would like to bring enrichment items, please drop them off at the ticket booth at the zoo’s main entrance. Be sure to attach a note saying which animal(s) the items are for, and your name (optional).
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Disclaimer | Privacy | Contact Us ©2008 Friends of the Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary.
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In
the wild, animals have plenty of things to do. Finding food and avoiding
danger take up the better part of their days. In captivity these activities
are no longer necessary, leaving the possibility of long periods of
boredom. Behavioral enrichment programs are a way to avoid these circumstances.
Not long ago enrichment programs were a novelty. Now they’ve become
accepted practice. Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary has been a leader in providing
enrichment to give our residents stimulating activities and challenges
to keep their lives interesting.
Just
as humans redecorate, zookeepers bring in new furnishings and move around
existing items to provide change. New logs or branches, piles of dirt
or sand, and platforms or ropes to climb are some examples of the fun
provided.