Reasons for Enrichment

Enrichment for animals was "invented" in 1920 by Robert Yerkes.
The purpose of enrichment is to provide the animals with the 4 c's

C Change

C Challenge

C Choice

C Control

Enrichment...  

• * Stimulates animals

• * Keeps the animals active

• * Improves animal welfare

• * Keeps animals interested in their environment

• * Provides animals a chance to show their wild behaviors

• * Gives animals time occupation

• * Gives mental and physical exercise

• * Reduces animal stress and promotes successful reproduction

• * Gives animals some control over their exhibit

• * Gives some stress to animals so that they can make better choices

• * May also be time to socialize with other animals

• * Is needed because animals in captivity can't live as varied lives as those in the wild

• * Allows animals to forage and hunt for food as they would do in the wild

• * Educates and entertains people!