Effect of different environmental enrichment techniques in captivity of Puma concolor

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of the implementation of different environmental enrichment techniques on the behavior of Puma concolor kept in captivity. Five Puma concolor, four males and one female, belonging to the Municipal Zoo of Ribeirão Preto-SP, were used for this study. For purposes of environmental enrichment, vine and sisal balls and cardboard boxes containing beef or lemon grass and cinnamon were introduced into the enclosures of the felines. The behavioral data were submitted to descriptive analysis. Even in captivity, the animals showed territorial demarcation behavior, such as urinating and roaring when feeling threatened. In addition, there was a greater interest of the Puma concolor for the cardboard boxes with beef to the detriment of those that contained lemon grass and cinnamon. The cougars also showed to be entertained by the vine and sisal balls. These findings suggest success of the environmental enrichment strategies studied, which was evidenced by the interest of the felines in the different evaluated materials. In addition, the enrichment strategies used in this study represent simple and low-cost strategies that contribute to the well-being of Puma concolor and can be applied in other institutions that house these animals.