Influence of environmental enrichment on the behavior of captive Ateles paniscus (Primates: Atelidae) in the Parque Zoobotânico Getúlio Vargas, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract

Enrichment techniques make captive environments more interesting and pleasant for animals, aiding their welfare and preventing the development of abnormal behaviors. In this study, we evaluated the influence of distinct enrichment techniques on the behavior of two captive spider monkeys, Ateles paniscus, in the Parque Zoobotânico Getulio Vargas, Salvador municipality, Brazil. The study was divided into five phases: control, sensory enrichment, social enrichment, feeding enrichment, and post-enrichment. We used the focal-animal sampling technique to record the individuals’ behavior. We compared the frequency of the behavioral acts shown in the enrichment phases with those of the control phase. The frequency of manipulation of the object placed in the enclosure during the sensory and feeding phases was also compared. Overall, no significant changes were observed in the behavioral repertoire of individuals, except during the feeding enrichment phase of the male individual. There were also no significant differences in use of enrichment objects. However, the results showed the influence of an enriched environment on the frequency of the individuals’ behavioral acts. Perhaps the enclosure conditions and the flow of visitors may have had some negative influence that did not allow for a more effective reduction in abnormal behaviors.