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21 - Studying Play in Zoos and Aquariums

from Part IV - Basic Research

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 December 2018

By
Sabrina I. C. A. Brando  and
Gordon M. Burghardt
Edited by
Allison B. Kaufman ,
Meredith J. Bashaw  and
Terry L. Maple
Allison B. Kaufman
Affiliation:
University of Connecticut
Meredith J. Bashaw
Affiliation:
Franklin and Marshall College, Pennsylvania
Terry L. Maple
Affiliation:
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
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Summary

Play behavior, commonly seen in zoos and aquariums, especially when animals are well housed, is fascinating to visitors, and zoos and aquariums are a potentially rich source of both basic and applied knowledge about this often mysterious behavior. Here, we provide some background on recognizing and studying play, as well as the diversity of the types and manifestations of play one can observe and study in exhibit facilities. The role of play in the psychological well-being of captive animals and the habitat and environmental provisions are discussed, along with play as an adjunct in animal training procedures. Opportunities for research on the role of play in development, adaptation to captivity, and comparative studies are great and greatly important.
Type
Chapter
Information
Scientific Foundations of Zoos and Aquariums
Their Role in Conservation and Research
 , pp. 558 - 585
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2019

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