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| Colchester Zoo is dedicated to encouraging,
supporting and conducting research that improves captive animal
management, benefits conservation programmes and contributes to
the body of scientific knowledge about animals and their natural
habitats.
Research is one of the primary objectives of Colchester Zoo and
the World Zoo Conservation Strategy highlights research as a major
role for modern zoos.
Colchester Zoo’s research includes both animal-based studies
and visitor studies. Animal-based studies can focus on behaviour,
welfare, nutrition, husbandry, environmental enrichment, ecology,
reproduction and conservation. All animal-based research undertaken
in the Zoo is non-invasive and mostly conducted through observation
of the animals in their captive environment.
Research studies assist in the mission of Colchester Zoo in a number
of ways.
- Helping to develop successful animal management practices by
assessing the effect of factors, such as enclosure design, diet
and social grouping on the animals.
- Benefiting the conservation of species and habitats, by improving
the success of captive breeding programmes and in situ programmes.
- Promoting conservation through education by assessing visitor
attitudes and perceptions.
The research officer works closely with animal management staff
to identify priority topics and Colchester Zoo encourages applications
for research within these priority areas. Students and other researchers
wishing to conduct studies on independent topics are invited to
submit an application, which will be assessed by the research officer
and the curator on the basis of the subject area, including the
value to science, and the logistics of the study, including staff
time and resources.
For further information about research at Colchester Zoo, please
contact the Research Officer, Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Stanway,
Colchester, CO3 0SL or e-mail research@colchester-zoo.co.uk
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Title: The Effectiveness of Simple Environmental Enrichment on the Activity of Captive Tortoises
Author: Paul Barnes
Summary: The health and welfare of many species of animals have been improved by environmental enrichment however there has been a lack of studies examining the behavioural and welfare needs of reptiles and specifically tortoises. This study examines the change in activity budget when some simple environmental enrichment, in the form of scatter feeding, is applied to a small group of captive tortoises (Geochelone sulcata). Significant differences were observed in all recorded behaviours and the scope for increased tortoise and reptile welfare is considered in the wider context of animal welfare science.
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the full abstract
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Title: Basking Rate and Influence of Behaviour of Komodo Dragons in Captivity in the UK
Author: Craig Forest
Summary: Adult and juvenile komodo dragons were observed at three UK collections, Chester, London and Colchester to investigate their behaviour and basking patterns. Komodo dragons at each institution were observed for 40 hours spread over a ten day period. Chester Zoo housed 2 adults and 3 juveniles, London housed 1 adult and 1 juvenile and Colchester housed 2 juveniles at the time of study. Instantaneous group scans were used to record the behaviour at 5 minute intervals over four one hour long observational periods spread evenly throughout the day. On each instant, the enclosure position, height, nearest neighbour and behaviour (resting, basking, locomotion, climbing, feeding, vigilance and other) was recorded for each individual. The results indicated that the young dragons showed natural instincts of tree climbing, and that resting behaviour was the most predominant behaviour; perhaps related to the dragon’s characteristic as an ambush predator.
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Title: A Comparison of Infant Development and Social Interactions, Observed in a Group of Cherry Crowned Mangabeys and Buffy Headed Capuchins
Author: Carrie Hollingworth
Summary: The aim of this study was to see if there is a significant difference in the rate of infant development between an Old and New World Primate Species. The study looked at the parental care in one old world species – cherry crowned mangabeys, and one new world species – buffy headed capuchins, to determine the rate of infant development by recording behaviours that the infant displayed and identifying which group members were most significant in developing the infants’ social relations. The results were then analysed to see if the infants developed at the same or different rates.
The two primate species had different rates of development and social interactions, with the old world species exhibiting greater independence than the new world species; which exhibited a prolonged infancy. The extent the siblings assisted did vary, but the biggest difference was the rate at which the male interacted. This latter was attributed to the direct care provided by the capuchin sire and the group protection role provided by the Mangabey male.
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Title: A Perspective to Children’s Informal Learning about Conservation in a Zoo
Author: Julie Kristensen
Summary: The aim of this study was to investigate whether Colchester Zoo successfully sends out a conservation message; to find out whether children do learn about ape conservation at Wilds of Asia and Chimp World in order to satisfy Colchester Zoo’s educational goals. This study was based on a Repeated Measure Design and was conducted over a four month data collection period. The study focused on what specific communication agents played a role in family conversation using interviews, questioning, observational and behavioural techniques.
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Title: The effect of two feeding enrichments on the foraging and abnormal behaviours of captive capuchins
Author: Laura Clark
Summary: Captive primates rarely have to spend as much time searching for, obtaining and processing food, as do their wild counterparts. Consequently behavioural needs are thwarted and abnormal behaviours may develop. Previous feeding enrichment studies involving primates have had partial success at increasing foraging and reducing abnormal behaviours. However, there has been no scientific investigation into the effect of feeding enrichment on the behaviour of the critically endangered yellow breasted capuchin monkey (Cebus xanthosternos). This study investigated the effect of a simple ladder device and a more complex puzzle device on foraging and abnormal behaviour in a group of four captive C.xanthosternos. Allogrooming dyads were also analysed in an attempt to determine whether the male was over grooming himself or whether it was another group member. A combination of scan and focal sampling observations were adopted to measure the frequency of behaviours for one hour pre-feed and two consecutive hours post-feed.
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Title: How social hierarchies differ between Theropithecus Gelada (Gelada Baboon) and Mandrillus Sphinx (Mandrill) society?
Author: Aaron Wheatley
Summary: This study was conducted at Colchester Zoo, and was targeted on the gelada baboon group consisting of six individuals and twenty-three strong troop of Mandrills, of which just six were observed. The six mandrill individuals observed were one alpha male, one dominant female who is currently mothering an infant, one sexually active female, a young adult female, one female infant and also one male infant. These individuals were chosen due to their similar status to the individuals within the gelada group. The aim of the study was:
• To investigate whether the social hierarchies of both Gelada and Mandrill differ and to what extent they differ
• To investigate the role of the Alpha Male, and to what extent his own individual behaviour influences the troops general routine and behaviour
A data statistics table was used to identify and record any grooming interactions between group members, communication methods and also evidence of kinship within each troop. An individual interaction table was also used, which helped to identify which individual was interacting with who, and also the frequencies at which the interactions were occurring.
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Title: An investigation into the behaviour of captive sealions
Author: Frances Nutbeam
Summary: This study compared the behaviour of both Patagonian and Californian sealions for 5 hour periods over two days at each of 7 collections. Behaviours were recorded every minute using scan sampling methods. Results showed that there was a significant difference in behaviours between collections, between males and females and between trained and untrained sealions. Results were not significant between the two species.
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Title: Effect of food presentation, preparation and type on the species typical foraging behaviours of captive orangutans.
Author: Sarah Fowkes
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the effects of food type, presentation and preparation methods on the rates of species typical foraging behaviours of captive orangutans. In total, 23 captive orangutans were studied at 5 different zoos. The specific aims of the current study were to:• Identify if species-typical food processing, manipulation and feeding tool use behaviours are displayed by captive populations of orangutans housed in UK zoos, • Investigate the effect of food preparation, and presentation techniques and food items universally used by UK based zoos on captive orangutans' species-typical foraging behaviours, • Acknowledge the effect of individual differences on the foraging behaviours of captive orangutans, • Identify any discrepancy in the rate of foraging behaviours between wild and captive orangutan populations, • Resolve any discrepancies between the species-typical foraging behaviours of captive versus wild orangutan populations.
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Title: Diet Selection and Nutrient Intakes of Captive Lion Tamarins
Author: Melissa Yaxley
Summary: A feed intake study, using continuous focal observation, food weight measurements and published food compositions, was carried out to assess the nutrient intakes of captive Lion tamarins and the existence of food preferences when a heterogeneous diet is offered. This study looked at the diet of two Callitrichid species (the Golden Headed and the Golden Lion Tamarin) which were housed at Colchester Zoo. There were several aims of the study: To record food intake for the two Lion Tamarin groups, To record individual food intake through focal observation of adult group members within the two tamarin groups, To estimate the nutrient content of food ingredients consumed by the two Lion Tamarin groups using published nutrient data, To calculate nutrient intakes of groups and individuals using the estimated nutrient composition of food ingredients, To assess if diets fed to the Callitrichids are nutritionally adequate, To analyse feeding behaviour of individuals with regards to quantities of different food types consumed (e.g. food preferences) over a given time period and To make suggestions to improve current feeding regimes of Callitrichids at Colchester Zoo.
The researcher recorded what was fed to each group between 9th July and 3rd August 2007 (n = 18 days) and the amount that was actually being consumed. Alongside this, individual intake was evaluated using continuous focal observation of one animal over a time period of one day, taken between the hours of 12noon and 4.30pm for L. chrysomelas and 11am and 4.30pm for L. rosalia. This provided more detailed information regarding individual preferences and dietary intake. The nutrient composition of each dietary ingredient was obtained from published data, which was used to calculate nutrient intakes for the two groups as well as for each individual during their focal observation sessions. For the duration of the study, food remains from both enclosures were removed for weighing at 4.30pm each day and then replaced overnight for L. chrysomelas only.
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Title: Dominance and Factors that Influence Aggression within a Group of Captive Mandrills. Problems with Dispersal Prevention in Captivity
Author: Joanne Rose Starns
Summary: Social interactions were observed in a group of captive mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx) at Colchester zoo focusing on a group of 5 surplus males within the zoo enclosure (10 males: 13 females). Male mandrill behaviour in captivity favours a tension- reduction model suggested by Videan & Fritz, (2007). The males were observed to increase affiliative behaviours and decrease aggressive behaviours as a coping technique. All behaviours were observed within a stable hierarchy that resulted in a minimum of aggression in the male mandrills. Dominance rank was found to be significantly linked to social (z=.016, p<0.05, one-tailed), submissive (z=.025 p<0.05, one-tailed) and self directed (z=.016, p<0.05, one-tailed) behaviours. Nasal brightness and age were also found to be significantly correlated with the male mandrills dominance rank (rs(6)=.943, p<0.01, one-tailed). These results were discussed in the light of previous research and further research suggested.
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Title: The Effect of Visitors on the Behaviour of a Group of Captive Golden Headed Lion Tamarins (Leontopithecus chrysomelas)
Author: Emma King
Summary: The aim of the study was to investigate whether the presence of visitors had an affect on the behaviour of a group of five captive Golden Headed Lion Tamarins. This was carried out by relating the density of visitors to the behaviours the animals. The study looked at whether high densities of visitors caused a change in the behaviour of the Tamarins, looking particularly at aggressive behaviour and fear of the visitors, such as hiding and active behaviour. By looking at these behaviours, as well as several other typical behaviours, it was possible to discover whether visitors had a negative effect on the behaviour of the Tamarins. It was also possible to see if they showed fear or abnormal behaviours, or whether, in fact, the presence of the visitors had a more positive effect, with visitors seen as a form of enrichment for the Tamarins.
An ethogram of behaviours was created from a preliminary study and then observations were conducted over a period of 20 days in January and February 2007, including 10 high visitor density days at weekends and half term and 10 low visitor density days. Observations were carried out using 3 hours of scan sampling per day, using a 5 minute interval.
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Title: Investigation of the inter-specific interactions between silver leaf langurs and Asian short-clawed otters
Author: Rosalie Dench
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess and monitor interactions between Asian short clawed otters and silver leafed langurs which were moved into a mixed species exhibit on 24th March 2006. The hypotheses tested were that the associations occurred no more frequently than by chance and that when associations do occur they are associated with defence of limited resources such as food, shade, and enrichment substrate or shared responses to a perceived threat. The first hypothesis was tested by recording enclosure use and the second by studying the behavioural repertoire, nearest neighbour identification and interactions. Three data collection periods were conducted in September 2006, December 2006 and March 2007. Group scan sampling was carried out at 3 minute intervals during hour long observation slots, 5 slots were spaced throughout the day. Each scan recorded all animals seen, behaviour, location, minimum estimated distance between heterospecifics and also between conspecifics. Ad libitum sampling was also used to record occurrences of heterospecific behaviours and visitor numbers and weather were also recorded for future comparisons. A pilot study was conducted to test methods and identify behaviours and in total, 30 hours of observations were carried out during each collection period, amounting to 90 hours of observations with 20 scan samples per hour.
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Title: Dominance Hierarchies and Social Interactions in Captive African Wild Dogs (Lycaon pictus).
Author: Sarah Jeeves
Summary: The aims of the current study were to examine the social interactions within the hunting dog pack, looking at neighbour preference and behaviour interactions, to see if the number of visitors affected the social routine by comparing with resting periods and social interactions and to find out the dominance hierarchy of the group using social behaviour and interactions. Neighbour preference was examined to see if it related to the behaviour given and received, using the prediction that neighbour preference should occur mainly between the dominants and that the subordinates should exhibit the most social interactions directed to the dominants. The study also used the predictions that the dominance socializing will mainly be focused on the alpha pair and that the social behaviour should not be too affected by visitors numbers.
A three day pilot study was conducted to allow individual identification and to register the social behaviour types. In total, a four week data collection period was carried out with a total of 132 hours total collection. Behaviour and scan sampling were used to carry out observations. Behaviour sampling was carried out four times a day at 20 minute intervals. The type and length of behaviour and the actor and receiver of behaviours were all recorded. Scan sampling was conducted every hour to identify the daily interactions. For analysis, the behaviours were grouped into cohesion, conflict and mating. Analysis was used to evaluate the occurrence, frequency and interactions of these behaviours
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Title: Spontaneous Number Ability in Squirrel Monkeys (Saimiri sciureus)
Author: Deborah Pert
Summary: This study considers if Squirrel monkeys possess a spontaneous number ability. This research utilized a method involving a forced choice decision task originally developed for Rhesus macaques. The Squirrel monkeys were shown two versus three banana slices that were placed individually into two opaque containers, placed 50 cm apart. The monkey was then allowed to select the container of choice. It was predicted that the Squirrel monkeys would ‘go for more’ and select the greater quantity. The results proved unfortunate as they were shown to be statistically insignificant by a binomial test even though the trend suggested that the Squirrel monkeys did overall successfully ‘go for more’. The predominant problem of this study was the lack of participants, but it is hoped that it could be replicated in the future to produce a statistically significant result.
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Title: 'After, all he is not a tame lion' - feeding enrichment for captive lions
Author: Natalie Cook
Summary: This study provided enrichment to Colchester Zoo’s pair of lions, Subu and Leoni. It used the premise that lions would benefit from enrichment and that feeding enrichment provides animals with opportunities to use natural foraging strategies in order to obtain food. The idea of the enrichment used was to promote hunting behaviour through enrichment, encouraging species-specific feeding behaviours such as pawing, pulling and biting.
The null hypothesis was that there would not be a significant increase in the time taken to obtain food with the enrichment in place and the experimental hypothesis suggested that there would be a significant increase. The overall aim of this study was to increase the amount of predatory behaviours exhibited and the time spent getting the food. Predatory behaviours were defined as any behaviour in which the lion put energy into acquiring food e.g. stalking, running to the food source, using teeth, claws, pulling and tugging and climbing the feed pole. The student conducted a baseline study, observing the lions in normal conditions. She observed their behaviour using instantaneous scan sampling at two minute intervals. In total, 81 one hour sessions were recorded. The enrichment device consisted of a Hessian sack on springs that was attached to the feed pole. The enrichment was given four times to each individual. Any interaction with the device was recorded, as were general behaviours and the time taken to retrieve the food.
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Title: Identifying and comparing the dominance structure in captive red-capped mangabeys
Author: Amanda Weeding
Summary: In this study the student evaluated social dominance in our group of cherry-crowned mangabeys, and analysed if there are any significant differences in social structure and behaviour when two of the animals were removed. Behavioural recordings were taken of the actor and recipient of affiliative or agonistic dyads and also the context in which the behaviour was used. Dominance hierarchy was evaluated by recording interactions using focal sampling. All individuals were studied at 25 minutes intervals in a different order each day. In total, 25 hours of focal samples were collected before the removal of two females and 25 hours afterwards. The final hierarchy was established using a David’s score, giving each individual a high and low rank. Thirty minutes scan sampling was used to record the nearest neighbour and the data was analysed to identify any significant difference. In total, 74 scans were collected before and 71 scans after the move. Differences in the frequency of each distance category were compared using a chi square test.
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Title: An animation depicting the Golden Lion Tamarin in its natural habitat, working to increase awareness of the species through computer graphics
Author: James Haley
Summary: This project has utilized the benefits of animation to create a 3D movie promoting the Golden Lion Tamarin.
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Title: Does a Human-animal Interaction Program Reduce an Animal's Fear of Unfamiliar Humans
Author: Melissa Yaxley
Summary: Human-animal interaction programs can be used within zoological establishments as a source of revenue. Visitor effects are unknown for a wide variety of animal species. This study looked at a group of meerkats and a group of dwarf mongoose that were part of the collection at Colchester zoo. The meerkat group had been involved in an interaction program in which zoo visitors entered their enclosure with the keeper to help feed them. A human approach test was used to compare the two groups in their willingness to approach the keeper and the researcher. Data collected showed that the meerkat group took less time to approach humans compared to the mongoose group. It was concluded that meerkats found human presence inside their enclosure enriching.
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Title: Social organisation amongst a group of mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx)
Author: Laura Pope
Summary: This project studied a group of 21 mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx) in captivity at Colchester zoo over a period of three weeks. Focal sampling was used to study interactions between pairs of individuals and running notes were made on other behaviours such as grooming and sexual behaviour. A strong linear dominance hierarchy was found using Landau’s index of linearity. This hierarchy, as well as castration of the majority of males, reduced aggression between the individuals in the group. Aggressive behaviour still occurred due to competition for space. The study also looked into how an individual’s rank in the dominance hierarchy affects their behaviour and interactions with other individuals. Results were not expected to correlate with the behaviour of wild mandrills but the study does show an insight into a group of captive mandrills.
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Title: The effect of visitor presence on the behaviour of a captive pack of African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus).
Author: Eleanor Lake
Summary: It is important to understand the effects of visitors on animals in zoos for two main reasons. Firstly, visitors have been found to be a source of stress and so decrease animal welfare. Secondly, visitor presence has an impact on the outcome of zoo research, affecting the reliability of the results.
The effects of visitors on primates have been widely studied, and more recently other zoo-housed species have been investigated. Many of the studies are contrasting in their results but the majority suggest that visitors have a stressful influence on captive animals. Visitor effects have been classed into three categories; that they act as stressors, as enrichment, or they have no effect at all. This study investigated visitor effects on the behaviour of 6 hunting dogs at Colchester Zoo.
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Title: Aggression and submission within a captive gelada baboon (Theropithecus gelada) group
Author: Elizabeth Gray
Summary: This study investigated whether the anticipation of food, addition of food, social rank and/or age change the amount of non-contact aggression, contact aggression and submissive behaviour performed by a group of gelada baboons at Colchester Zoo.
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Title: Developing environmental enrichment techniques for pygmy hippos (Hexaprotodon liberiensis)
Author: Joy Mallach
Summary: Three enrichment items were tested for a male and female pygmy hippo(Hexaprotodon liberiensis)housed separately. The enrichment items used were a ball of hay, a football, and a broom head scented with vanilla essence. Data show that the hay ball was the most successful enrichment item at increasing activity levels.
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Title: What impact does Colchester Zoos informal education programme have upon visitor conservation awareness?
Author: Kirsty Hughes
Summary: Colchester Zoo is a popular visitor attraction in the South East, attracting more than half a million visitors a year. This study focuses upon Colchester Zoos efforts at encouraging environmental awareness through use of species information boards, and other informal learning activities.
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Title: Sampling the behaviour of the common squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) in the wild and in captivity: a comparison of methods
Author: Bryony Partner
Summary: The study compared focal and scan sampling methods of behavioural data collection in order to assess which method is most suitable for behavioural studies in captivity, and the wild. The results of the study suggest that focal animal sampling is most suitable for studies of captive behaviour, whilst scan sampling is most suitable for studies of wild behaviour.
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Title: The effect of auditory enrichment on the behaviour of black and white colobus monkeys (Colobus guereza caudatus)
Author: Lucy Cooke
Summary: The aim of the research was to determine the effect of playing vocalisations of black and white colobus (Colobus guereza caudatus) and red colobus (Colobus badius) to a group of black and white colobus monkeys.
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Title: Social interactions between two groups of African elephants (Loxodonta africana) with particular focus on interactions involving two bull calves
Author: Alexis Hoy
Summary: This investigation explores the social interactions within and between two groups of elephants housed adjacent to each other at Colchester Zoo.Like social groups in the wild, the elephants seemed to follow the matriarchal system whereby there is one dominant female.
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Title: Spontaneous number representation in lemurs
Author: Rosaline Cullen
Summary: In the first known zoo-based spontaneous choice task testing lemurs numerical abilities, it was tested if lemurs (Prosimians) could perform with the same representations of number as human infants and rhesus monkeys.
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Title: Olfactory enrichment for black and white ruffed and red ruffed lemurs
Author: Hannah Butterfield
Summary: This study investigated the effects of olfactory enrichment in black and white ruffed and red ruffed lemurs. Diluted lavendar and passion fruit essential oils were sprayed onto strips of material and placed into the enclosures. Lavendar scent provided a small increase in activity, whereas passion fruit did not. Both species of lemur were more inclined to play with the material strips when they were unscented.
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Title: Effect of visitor numbers on the behaviour of the Buffy-headed capuchin (Cebus apella xanthosternos)
Author: Charlotte Everitt
Summary: It had been observed by keepers that the dominant male Buffy-headed capuchin (Cebus apella xanthosternos)had been losing the fur on its tail, and preliminary observations indicated that this was due to a high level of self-grooming. Focal scans during the end of the summer vacation revealed that visitor numbers and time of day had a significant effect on the levels of self-grooming by the dominant male.
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Title: A behavioural study of a pair of captive Iberian wolves (Canis lupus signatus)
Author: Thomas Smith
Summary: This study gives a general comparison of two Iberian wolves (Canis lupus signatus) at Colchester Zoo before and after introduction of hunting dogs (Lycaon pictus) to a neighbouring enclosure. Significant changes in behaviour were observed, including increases in territoriality.
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Title: Behavioural and hormonal changes exhibited by White rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)
Author: Jonathan Kern
Summary: The aim of the study was to determine a possible factor for the lack of breeding success in captive white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) using behavioural and hormonal data.
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Title: Biology of the Aardvark (Orycteropus afer)
Author: Joachim Knothig
Summary: A thesis carried out to increase the knowledge of this unusual creature and increase the understanding of its natural behaviour. A literature search was carried out, as well as questionnaires sent to game parks in Africa and zoos holding aardvarks in captivity.
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Title: Dominance hierarchies in primates
Author: Melissa Yaxley
Summary: The aim of this study was to identify the social structure of a number of captive groups of primates housed at Colchester Zoo. The results were used to draw comparisons between different species, and to identify any similarities in their social systems. In addition to this, comparisons were made between individual species and their social structure in the wild, based on information from scientific literature.
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Title: Activity budgets of captive Damara zebra (Equus burchelli antiquorum)
Author: Laura Burgess
Summary: The aim of this study was to determine the activity budget of a group of captive Damara zebra at Colchester Zoo. The behaviour of the juveniles and the adults was compared to identify any variation. The activity budget was also compared with those for other equids to assess whether the group exhibited a species-typical activity budget.
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Title: A study into artifical insemination in captive elephants
Author: Priya Bapodra
Summary: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess the different components of the Articial insemination (AI) process and to demonstrate the elephants' reproductive cycle using hormonal data obtained from Colchester Zoo and Whipsnade Wild Animal Park. Analysis of the cycles was used to determine whether ovulation can be predicted from a cow's cycle history, therefore, indicating the correct time for insemination.
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Title: An observational study of the integration fo two female white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum) into a mixed exhibit of large African mammals
Author: Steven Philp
Summary: The aim of this study was to collect data on the behaviour exhibited by two young female rhinos, recently acquired by Colchester Zoo, and their resident male and female rhino. Behaviour was recorded during sessions when the four rhinos were being mixed and in their familiar pairs. Comparisons were drawn between behaviours exhibited as pairs and as a whole group, with particular emphasis to assessing with antagonistic behaviours decreased during the integration process.
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Title: Perioperative and anaesthetic-related mortality risks in great apes in zoological collections in the UK and Ireland
Author: Nic Masters
Summary: There is anecdotal evidence to suggest that perioperative mortality in great apes is higher than in companion animals. The aim of this study is to investigate the perioperative mortality rate in great apes in zoological collections in the UK and Ireland over the last 15 years and identify any possible contributing factors.
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Title: A Comparison of Husbandry, Feed Intake and Cause of Death of Captive Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) in the United Kingdom
Author: Paul Rose
Summary: The aim of this study was to analyse the nutritional value of diets provided to captive giraffes in a number of different collections. Data was collected on the food provided and that consumed by the giraffes to determine the true composition of the food eaten by the giraffes. This information is being compared with factors to assess the influence of nutrition on health.
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Title: The effects of different enrichment regimes on the behaviour and activity of a group of captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Author: Jessamy Korotoga
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess the behavioural repertoirs of a group of captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and then to use different methods of environmental enrichment to try to increase the frequency and variety of species-typical behaviours. Following 6 weeks of observations of the group, three different enrichment conditions were implemented, for two consecutive weeks each. The enrichment techniques implemented were generally beneficial in increasing activity, and practical in terms of cost and time involved. Therefore, they appear to be positive additions for the husbandry regime of the chimpanzees at Colchester Zoo.
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Title: A study on the use of an enclosure with arboreal structures by a group of captive colobus monkeys (Colobus guereza caudatus)
Author: Jordana Burdon-Bailey
Summary: Anecdotal evidence suggest that the colobus group at Colchester Zoo spend a lot of their time on the ground or on the lower levels of their climbing apparatus. The aim of this study was to investigate the amount of time the group of Colobus monkeys at Colchester Zoo invest in different behaviours. A particular focus of the study was enclosure use, as this species is typically highly arboreal.
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Title: Effects of enclosure size, design and complexity on the behaviour of Colombian black spider monkeys (Ateles fusciceps robustus)
Author: Valerie Dalglish
Summary: This study focussed on the behavioural repertoire of a group of Colombian black spider monkeys (Ateles fusciceps robustus) before moving from a temporary enclosure to a purpose-built open-topped enclosure. The aim of the study was to identify whether the group exhibited a greater range of species-specific behaviours in their new enclosure.
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Title: An investigation of the cooperative strategies employed by Colombian black spider monkeys (Ateles fusciceps robustus) whilst allogrooming
Author: Felicity Cooper
Summary: The aim of this project was to assess the means by which reciprocation occurs in Colombian black spider monkeys' allogrooming with the aim of establishing how social grooming has become an evolutionary stable strategy within this species. The study compares the strategy exhibited by the captive spider monkey group with those uder by other primate species and suggests explanations for any differences that exist.
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Title: Investigating the activity budgets of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) as a welfare indicator
Author: Gemma Pearce
Summary: The aim of this study was to compare the activity budgets of captive and wild chimpanzees quantitatively. The study will include a comparison of the behavioural repertoire of chimpanzees in different captive collections.
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Title: Does the size and content of an enclosure have an effect on the behaviour exhibited by chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Author: Laura Fergie
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess whether there are behavioural differences in two groups of chimpanzees - one at Colchester Zoo and one at Monkey World. Possible explanations for any differences that are observed will be considered, such as the enclosure size and content, and recommendations for management made.
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Title: Fingerprinting macaws
Author: Sasha Mannini
Summary: The aim of this study was to develop a database of green-winged macaws and blue and yellow macaws, using their feather lines on the face. The feather lines are unique to individual birds. Therefore, the database will be used to identify birds, for example, in the illegal pet trade.
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Title: Fingerprint identification of tortoises
Author: Natasha Lay
Summary: The aim of this study was to develop a database through which individual tortoises could be identified, for example, if they are stolen. The study involved collecting photographs of the plastorn and carapace of tortoises of a number of different species to develop the database.
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Title: Public perception of zoos compared with safari parks
Author: Lee McAlpin
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess whether public perception of zoos and safari parks differs. The survey focussed on their perception with particular respect to the animals' welfare, enclosure design and the role of different collections.
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Title: Assessing what factors affect marmosets breeding success
Author: Sharyn Amos
Summary: The aim of this study was to understand the factors that affect the reproductive ability of common marmosets. Data collection for this study involved observing marmoset groups at different captive collections to develop an activity budget and assess the effect of enrichment and their environment on their behaviour. From the information collected, recommendations will be made to Tropical Wings regarding the management of this species in their collection.
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Title: An observational study of Philippine sail-finned lizards (Hydrosaurus pustulatus) with a particular focus on visitor effects
Author: Erika Smith
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess the behavioural repertoire of Philippine sail-finned lizards, with a particular focus on visitor levels and noise. The study involved data collection to produce activity budgets and recording visitor levels during different periods of data collection.
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Title: Differences in welfare between birds kept for falconry and those kept in aviaries
Author: Robin Holden
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess the effect of management of falconry birds used for displays on the welfare of the birds. Data collection for this study involved developing activity budgets of the behavioural repertoire of falconry birds used in displays and those kept in aviaries to assess whether there was any significant variation in the behaviour exhibited.
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Title: A behavioural study of a white tiger (Panthera tigris): Do animals know when its dinner time?
Author: Paul Evans
Summary: The aim of this study was to examine the behaviour of a male white Bengal tiger over feed and fast days to identify whether the fixed routine was causing increased stereotypical behaviour, especially on a fast day.
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Title: The effect of enclosure size and complexity on the welfare of captive African lions (Panthera leo)
Author: Jane Bartlett
Summary: The aim of this study was to compare the behaviour of lions in different enclosures, with varying size and complexity. The results suggested that larger more complex behaviours resulted in more species-typical behaviour and were beneficial to the animal's welfare.
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Title: Feeding enrichment and its effect on a captive group of common squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus)
Author: Laura Clarke
Summary: Observations were made before and after the introduction of new feeding techniques for a group of common squirrel monkeys.
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Title: Social learning in golden lion tamarins (Leontopithecus rosalia)
Author: Kate Smith
Summary: The aim of this study was to determin whether social learning has a function in golden lion tamarin development. The study assessed whether individuals who had observed a task were quicker at performing that same task that those who had not previously seen the task being completed.
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Title: The behavioural implications of moving captive Patagonian sealions (Otaria byronia) into a larger enclosure
Author: Natalie Eyers
Summary: The aim of this project was to determine whether moving the three sea lions into a new larger and complex enclosure would affect their behaviour in any way. The following activities were being observed; swimming, playing, grooming, social interaction, aggression and inactivity. Initial results suggest that the move has had a significant impact on the behaviour of the sea lions.
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Title: Anti-predator behaviour displays in captive meerkats (Suricata suricatta)
Author: Rebecca Seaman
Summary: The aim of this project was to investigate the vigilance and anti-predator behaviour of a group of captive meerkats at Colchester Zoo. The project observed the behaviours of the meerkats, before and after a predator simulation. These simulations were both visual and auditory, using the calls of birds of prey and a silhouette of a bird of prey in flight. It was expected that the meerkats would react to the predator simulation by showing increased vigilance within the group.
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Title: The use of cheek pouches in patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas)
Author: Kate Broad
Summary: The aim of this study was to investigate the use of cheek pouches in relation to how food is presented i.e. scatter feeds or clump feeds, and whether the food is presented whole or chopped. It also investigates the use of cheek pouches in relation to sex, age, and the rank of the individuals within the group. Different feeding conditions were trialled and observations made by scan sampling and focal sampling.
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Title: Does group size effect distancing in a captive orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) social group?
Author: Donna Ward
Summary: This project investigated distancing in captive orangutans by evaluating how much time individuals spend on their own, including how often they seek and avoid the attention of others. It also compared the distancing of orangutans living in larger social groups to those living in a smaller social group. The investigator used several zoological collections with captive groups of orang-utans ranging from two individuals to eight in order to gather data.
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Title: A comparison of behaviours displayed by a group of gelada baboons (Theropithecus gelada) with summer and winter management
Author: Nick Miller
Summary: This project compares the behaviour of Colchester Zoo’s troop of Gelada baboons during the summer months and winter months. It investigates whether there are any significant differences during these two times due to colder temperatures and fewer grazing opportunities.
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Title: Comparing enclosure design of ring-tailed lemurs (Lemur catta) and the effect on behaviour
Author: Rachel Gould
Summary: This enclosure aims to observe four different groups of captive lemurs from different zoological collections. Comparisons of the behaviours will be made to investigate whether enclosure design has a significant effect on behaviours displayed.
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Title: Personality assessment of cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) in the UK and Ireland
Author: Sheila McKay
Summary: The cheetah has a history of being notoriously difficult to breed in captivity. By determining the behaviour profile (or personality) of cheetahs held in the UK and Ireland, it was hoped that some possible behavioural reasons for this variable breeding success could be established.
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Title: A comparison of the social behaviour of captive infant spider monkeys (Ateles fusciceps robustus) with infant black crested macaques (Macaca nigra)
Author: Charlotte Frearson
Summary: Observations of captive spider monkey and black crested macaque social behaviour and group interaction were carried out. These observations will be used to build a model to determine how monkeys learn social behaviour and its relevance to Primate and human evolution.
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Title: Enclosure use of the Colombian black spider monkey (Ateles fusciceps robustus)
Author: Julia Fitzpatrick
Summary: This study focused on the behavioural patterns exhibited by two captive groups of spider monkeys. The aim of the study was to compare the behaviour of the two groups with wild behaviour and provide recommendations for enclosure design for this species to encourage natural behaviours.
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Title: The effects of constrained movement on fission-fusion sociality in Colombian black spider monkeys (Ateles fusciceps robustus)
Author: Samantha Coleman
Summary: The aim of this study was to observe the social interactions within a group of captive spider monkeys. The study focussed on whether spider monkeys exhibit fission-fusion patterns of sociality in a captive environment which enforces restrictions on movement and spacing. This was determined by recording the composition of social groups called ‘parties’ and assessing whether these parties vary, suggesting a fission-fusion pattern of social behaviour.
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Title: The effect of environmental enrichment on the behaviour of captive black-backed jackals (Canis mesomelas)
Author: Ashish Pungaliya
Summary: The study investigated the effect of different environmental enrichment techniques on the behaviour of a group of black-backed jackals. The project involved observations of the jackals during a control period, followed by a test period when a range of environmental enrichment techniques were provided. The results for these two periods were then compared to assess whether there was a significant effect on the behaviour of the jackals due to environmental enrichment.
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Title: Mutual grooming among captive Damara zebra (Equus burchellii antiquorum)
Author: Laura Burgess
Summary: The aim of this study was to determine the daily activity budgets of captive Damara zebras. Data collection recorded observations of behaviour, such as feeding, resting and locomotion. Once the activity budgets had been calculated they were compared with those of other captive zebra species and with those of wild equid species. Information on the activity budgets of captive species is useful in assessing whether they exhibit natural behaviour patterns and can be useful in developing management practices.
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Title: Intraspecific variation in behaviours in tigers (Panthera tigris) within and between zoos
Author: Amy King
Summary: The objectives of this study were to assess whether there is variation between the behaviour of captive tigers observed in a number of collections. This involved sampling the frequency and duration of behaviour exhibited by captive tigers. The results were then used to suggest possible factors resulting in variation in observed behaviours.
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Title: Behavioural analysis of captive lion-tailed macaques (Macaca silenus) in British zoos
Author: Gilly Irving-Lewis
Summary: The aim of this project was to assess the behaviour of captive lion-tailed macaques, with particular focus on how the physical environment, group composition, rearing history and diet influenced their behaviour. An additional focus was the effect of visitors on the behaviour of the macaques. Data was collected to determine the daily activity budget of macaques, which were compared with studies focussing on the behaviour of captive and wild lion-tailed macaques. The results will be used to make recommendations on the husbandry and management of this species in captivity.
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Title: Understanding sleeping habits and night-time behaviour in the mandrill (Mandrillus sphinx)
Author: Melissa George
Summary: The focus of this project was to study and compare the behaviours and sleeping habits of captive mandrills both during the day and at night. Data was also collected regarding the social interactions between the mandrills at night-time and during the day. Behavioural data was collected at night using CCTV cameras installed in both the indoor and outdoor enclosures. This information was used to develop knowledge of the night-time behaviour of this species in captivity.
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Title: Scent-marking in a captive population of maras (Dolichotis patagonum)
Author: Debbie Emmerson
Summary: This project looked at the behaviour exhibited by a group of mara, including scent-marking. The study had a particular focus on whether the maras exhibited scent over-marking and investigated the possible reason that this behaviour occurs. The results suggested that this behaviour was either a communication of dominance between males or alternatively used to attract a mate.
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Title: Social interaction in harbour seals (Phoca vitulina)
Author: Hayley Jones
Summary: The aim of this study was to construct activity budgets of two harbour seals. A particular focus of this project was to assess the frequency and duration of social interactions between the seals from observations conducted.
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Title: Scent-marking in tamarins (Callitrichidae species)
Author: Vanessa Walters
Summary: The aim of this project was to establish the dominance hierarchy of a social group of tamarins. This was determined by observing the frequency of scent-marking by individuals. Additional information, such as location and nearest neighbour of the tamarin exhibiting scent-marking behaviour were also used to determine the hierarchy.
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Title: Social organisation in a captive Gelada baboons (Theropithecus gelada) group
Author: Miranda Avery
Summary: This project investigated the social structure and interactions observed within a captive group of gelada baboons. There has been limited research conducted focussing on this species, particularly in captivity, and therefore, there is still much to understand about its behaviour. In the wild, the gelada baboons have a complex society, forming groups of up to 600 animals. Therefore, studying the social structure of this species in captivity is a particularly interesting topic.
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Title: Aggression in a group of captive timber wolves (Canis lupus)
Author: Victoria Hayden
Summary: This study focussed on the aggressive behaviours in a pack of timber wolves. Dominance and aggressive behaviours exhibited by the wolves were recorded to assess the frequency of these behaviours, who performed them and who they were directed towards. This information was used to identify patterns in aggressive behaviours and attempt to determine the cause of these behaviours. The results were also compared with studies on aggressive behaviours in wild wolf packs, with the expectation that higher frequencies of aggression would be observed in the captive wolves.
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Title: The effect of environmental enrichment on behaviour exhibited by a jaguar (Panthera onca)
Author: Jodi Wheeler
Summary: This study involved observations of a jaguar and recorded the natural behaviours, such as stalking, and stereotypical behaviours, such as pacing, that were observed. The effect of environmental enrichment, such as feeding whole prey and hiding food in the enclosure, on the frequency of different types of behaviour was then assessed. The aim of the study was to determine whether environmental enrichment techniques used significantly reduced the frequency of stereotypical behaviours exhibited by the jaguar.
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Title: The difference in activity behaviours between zoo and safari kept African lions (Panthera leo)
Author: Hayley Monaghan
Summary: The focus of this study was the behavioural repertoire of lions in a zoo compared with a safari park. Data was collected over a 5 day period at both collections to determine the frequency of time spent performing different behaviours, including sleeping, feeding, locomotion. The aim was to identify whether the difference in social group of environment appears to influence their behaviour.
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Title: Assessment of the infuence of modifying husbandry techniques and environmental factors on the behaviours of a male white tiger (Panthera tigris)
Author: Leanne Male
Summary: The aim of this study was to assess the behavioural patterns of the male white tiger and identify possible modifications to increase his repertoire of natural behaviours.
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Title: Creating a naturalistic environment for a pair of binturongs (Arctictis binturong) at Colchester Zoo
Author: Leanne Male
Summary: A comparative study showing behaviour changes in a pair of Binturongs before and after an enclosure refurbishment.
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Title: Behaviour and activity budgets of captive giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) fed different diets in three different zoos in the UK.
Author: Gemma Houghton
Summary: The current study aimed to establish the behaviour of captive giraffes fed different diets at three different zoos in the UK. The hypothesis to be tested was that the different diets would result in the behaviour and activity budgets of the giraffes being significantly different between the zoos. Stereotypic behaviours were also expected to be affected by the different diets.
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Title: A behaviour study of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) to determine the effect of novelty enrichment
Author: Laura Benson
Summary: This study follows the basic ideas of Paquette and Prescott (1988) with additional novelty enrichment ideas adapted from Burgess (1999). This study looked at the effects of varying degrees of environmental enrichment on the behaviour of captive chimpanzees. Furthermore, the effectiveness of novel enrichment within these varying degrees of environmental enrichment was assessed.
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Title: A study of captive patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas)
Author: Lorraine Miller
Summary: The aim of this project is to determine the effect of moving enclosure has on a group of Patas monkeys. The project compared the old enclosure with the new one with regard to the dominance structure and aggression displayed.
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Title: The effect of a foraging enrichment on the behaviour of buffy-headed capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella xanthosternos)
Author: Amanda Skornia
Summary: The main aim of the study was to test the overall hypothesis that "a foraging enrichment would have an effect on the behaviour of captive yellow-breasted capuchins". This was achieved by observing the capuchins for six days before the addition of the enrichment and comparing the behavioural activities to those observed during six days with the foraging enrichment added.
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Title: Communication in the slender-tailed meerkat (Suricata suricatta)
Author: Charlotte Rose
Summary: A look at communication in the Slender Tailed Meerkat in relation to vocal signals produced and group reactions to these vocalisations in response to stimuli used; leopard, snake and eagle.
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Title: The prevalence of endoparasites in captive and wild cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) with an emphasis on Echinococcus
Author: Jeongwha Kim
Summary: Endoparasite eggs were observed using the direct smear test and the flotation test in captive cheetahs in UK zoological collections and wild cheetahs in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. The prevalence of parasite infection was higher in wild cheetahs (93%) in comparison to that of captive cheetahs (63%). The endoparasite community was found to be different between captive and wild populations
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