Zoo Lions Behave Like Wild Counterparts with New Feeding Method

Topic: Environment

Scientists at Adelaide University and Monarto Safari Park in Australia studied how zoo lions eat. They found that giving whole animal carcasses as part of a feast and fast feeding schedule makes the lions behave more like their wild counterparts.

A team of scientists from Adelaide University and Monarto Safari Park in South Australia conducted an experiment to see how zoo lions behave when given whole animal carcasses as part of their diet. The researchers wanted to understand how African lions in human care respond to feeding routines that resemble those found in the wild.

The study involved three adult male lions at Monarto Safari Park, who were given approximately 200 kilograms of carcasses every nine days. This was done in addition to their regular feeding routine. The researchers used eight infrared cameras to record the animals continuously for three months.

The results showed that when whole carcasses were provided, the lions spent almost three times as long eating as they typically did. They also fed more frequently and for longer stretches as they tore apart, pulled at, manipulated, and consumed the carcasses. After feeding, the lions rested for longer periods of time, which is similar to what happens in the wild.

The researchers found that providing whole carcasses changed more than just the nutritional content of the diet. It also gave the lions opportunities to engage in natural behaviors such as tearing, pulling, and manipulating food over extended periods.

Why It Matters

Understanding how zoo animals behave can help improve their living conditions and make them happier and healthier. This study shows that by mimicking the natural feeding patterns of wild lions, we can create a more natural environment for them in zoos.

Key Facts

• The study was conducted at Adelaide University and Monarto Safari Park in South Australia.
• Three adult male African lions were studied over three months.
• The lions were given approximately 200 kilograms of whole carcasses every nine days.
• The researchers used eight infrared cameras to record the animals continuously for three months.
• The study found that providing whole carcasses changed more than just the nutritional content of the diet.

Key Terms

Carcass

A dead animal, often given as food in zoos.

Feast and fast rhythm

The natural pattern of eating and fasting found in wild lions, where they eat a lot one day and then rest for several days before hunting again.

Pacing

A repetitive behavior in carnivores, often linked to anticipation or hunger.

Implications

Understanding how zoo animals behave can help improve their living conditions and make them happier and healthier. This study shows that by mimicking the natural feeding patterns of wild lions, we can create a more natural environment for them in zoos.