Behavioural Differences in Captive Sumatran Tigers (Panthera tigrissumatrae)

Abstract

Measuring behavioural differences for captive Sumatran tigers (Panthera tigrissumatrae) is a useful tool for the optimisation of captive environments and animal welfare. Behavioural differences can be measured by comparing several individuals and by comparing days with enrichment to days without enrichment. The behaviour of two individuals can vary for reasons such as age and sex, where age can play a part in the activity level of an individual as well as age-related diseases can impact behavior. Using statistical analyses on data collected by observing tigers (n=4) in Aalborg Zoo, Denmark, throughout 15 days, it was possible to visualize and calculate significant changes in behaviour when comparing enrichment and control days. The main focus of this study was the individual behavioural differences on enrichment and control days.All individuals showed increased activity on enrichment days. This study also aimed to investigate whether meloxicam had an effect on the behaviourof an aged male Sumatran tiger as a tool to assess if he had pain. No significant behavioural changes were observed in the behaviour of the tiger with or without meloxicam treatment. In conclusion, there were differences in the behaviour of individuals of different age andsex and how the individuals reacted to enrichment.