Animals in zoos came in contact with both visitors and zookeepers on a daily basis. Visitors can have a positive impact on animals by enriching the environment, stimulating their activity and curiosity and reducing the likelihood of abnormal behaviours. When visitors behave appropriately, the animals are more relaxed in their presence and may even approach them. Inappropriate behaviour, such as tapping on glass or enclosures, sudden and rapid movements or noise, causes stress which results in the animals retreating to their indoor enclosures. It is therefore important that visitors respect the rules of behaviour to avoid any negative impact on the animals’ welfare. The zookeepers play a key role in ensuring appropriate living conditions for the animals. Their attitude, mood, knowledge and way of interacting with the animals have a major impact on animals welfare. A positive relationship between zookeeper and animal reduces stress and aggression. The constant presence of the same zookeepers can contribute to greater relaxation of the animals and the development of a positive relationship between zookeepers and animals.
|
