Visitor effects on the behavior of captive Western lowland gorillas: the importance of individual differences in examining welfare.

摘要: Given the conflicting and somewhat limited findings available on effect of zoo visitors primate behavior, primary purpose this study was to provide additional data gorillas' response variations in crowd size look at what other factors-both intrinsic (e.g. personality, sex, rearing history) extrinsic group)-might influence such responses. Subjects included four groups (three mixed-sex one bachelor) captive western lowland gorillas living Zoo Atlanta. Overall activity budgets rates social behaviors high low conditions were compared. Behaviors suggestive general welfare did not vary as a function alone, although we observe significant interaction several trends. Specifically, two spent more time engaged undesirable condition, whereas showed opposite pattern. Additionally, males, but females, trend toward greater contact aggression wounding with size. We also found trends towards variation individual personality ratings. These results suggest that visitor may constitute an impediment optimal animal welfare, only apply some individuals or groups. emphasize importance continuing explore differences limitations one-size-fits-all approach when describing influences welfare.