12/01/2025
Conservation Classroom Monday
What does enrichment mean, and why is it crucial for welfare?
Enrichment refers to the purposeful activities, items, and environments that encourage animals under human care to think, explore, and express natural behaviors. This can include puzzle feeders, new scents, climbing structures, training sessions, varied habitats, or even changes in social settings. Enrichment is designed to stimulate the mind and body, offering animals choices, challenges, and opportunities to use their instincts just like they would in the wild.
Providing enrichment is crucial for animal welfare because it prevents boredom, reduces stress, and supports both physical and mental health. Animals that are engaged in natural behaviors—like foraging, problem-solving, hunting-like play, or using their senses—are more confident, active, and adaptable. By offering daily enrichment, zoos help ensure every animal experiences a life full of curiosity, comfort, and positive experiences, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life.
👍Follow our AAZK chapter to support conservation education.
