The Behavioural Biology of Zoo Animals

Zoo Animal Behaviour

The Behavioural Biology of Zoo Animals explores the natural behaviour, ecology and welfare needs of animals kept in zoos and aquariums. It explains how species biology and evolutionary history can guide enclosure design, enrichment, nutrition, training and population management. The book covers a wide range of taxa and presents evidence-based approaches to improving animal health, wellbeing and conservation outcomes.

Key Features

• Behavioural biology of captive zoo animals
• Links natural ecology with captive care
• Covers animal welfare and wellbeing
• Guidance on enclosure design and enrichment
• Nutrition and husbandry considerations
• Handling and training approaches
• Population management principles
• Covers primates, elephants and marine mammals
• Includes fish, reptiles, birds and invertebrates
• Applies evidence from wild populations
• Supports conservation and education goals
• Discusses visitor experience and zoo management
• Useful for zoo professionals and animal scientists
• Suitable for students of zoo biology and animal welfare