We have validated a method of sampling behaviour and substrate use for Humboldt penguins*. We used the information gathered by our research to inform an enclosure revamp, which has improved the penguin enclosure by giving the birds more land and a higher ratio of sand to concrete. To make it really easy to collect data in the long term, we designed, and are using a digital tool allowing keepers to enter data using phones or tablets. The results are automatically graphed and are available for managers and keepers to see immediately.

*Goodenough, A. E., Sewell, A., McDonald, K. (2023). Behavioural patterns in zoo housed Humboldt penguins (Spheniscus humboldti) revealed using long-term keeper-collected data: Validation of approaches and improved husbandry. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 258.

For several years, we have employed a standard method to collect activity budgets (what they do day-to-day) for our tigers. We use researchers and students to get up-to-date data for each individual every couple of years. Studying behaviour and activity in this way helps us monitor the welfare of our tigers. If we see any behaviours such as stereotypic pacing behaviour, we can put in mitigations to reduce it. With our continued monitoring, we can then assess whether our mitigations have been successful.  Most importantly, we can ensure our tigers are expressing healthy species-typical levels and types of activity.

We have a dedicated rhino patrol in our Safari Drive. This is a fantastic opportunity to collect data and learn more about our rhinos. Keepers record the behaviour of each individual every 20 minutes. We are using the results to look at what factors (visitor numbers, weather, season etc), might be influencing rhino behaviour. We are also working with other animal settings, so we can ultimately look at differences in rhino behaviour between wildlife parks too.