To pace or not to pace? A review of what Abnormal Repetitive Behavior tells us about zoo animal management

Performance of Abnormal Repetitive Behavior (ARB) is noted in many captive wild species. ARB can be categorized into two basic forms; those whose aim appears to be to compulsively reach an inappropriate goal, and those whose performance is linked to an inappropriate motor function. While the negative welfare connotations of ARBs are well-known, the precise reason for their performance remains the subject of debate. As zoos move forward in collection planning and to gather more evidence on the biological needs of the species being kept, the idea that ARBs may be part of a “coping function” adds more weight to arguments that some species may not be suitable for the zoo at all.
Source: Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research