The Alouatta genus is one of the primate groups which have had extensive research carried out into their wild welfare and behaviour. Captive studies on howler monkeys are particularly minimal, even though they could provide researches and zoos further information on specific behaviours, physiology and biology (Pastor-Nieto, 2014). The few studies that have been carried out on captive howler monkeys suggest that males are dominant over females. In many instants most males will settle fights between females (Benton, 1976). Females tend to be more sociable and show less competitiveness. Both males and females show less activity levels than juveniles which can show higher activity levels during early morning or late afternoon (Shoemaker, 1982).
…show more content…
Observing animal behaviour and their responses to different environments can be a valuable way of providing a non-invasive welfare measure. This method aids assessment and monitoring of whole groups of animals in different captive environments (Farmer, Plowman, and Leaver, 2011). It has been suggested by Dawkins (2004) that vocalisations are a welfare indicator as they can signal emotional states, where as behavioural observations can used as a measurement of welfare. Captive environments are understood to be less complex, provide less choice, is more predictable and easier to control animals than in wild habitats (Carlstead and Mcphee, 2010). Environmental enrichment is applied to captive environments to improve and encourage natural behaviours. In order to improve the welfare of an animal and encourage them to perform natural behaviours though modifications to its environment, the enrichment must be able to aim to improve the biological functions of an animal (Newberry, …show more content…
In response to this, enrichment must be able to address these three different concepts before being allowed on captive animals: complexity and novelty, choice and control (Buchanan-Smith, 2010). Physical and social needs can be addressed by increasing the complexity of an animal’s enclosure. The presence of enrichment can test their cognitive needs such as the introduction of tool use and puzzle boards as these can reduce the effects of habituation, as enclosures which have repetitive routines and non-stimulated environments can lead to the increase in stereotypical behaviours and boredom (Buchanan-Smith,
Observing animal behaviour and their responses to different environments can be a valuable way of providing a non-invasive welfare measure. This method aids assessment and monitoring of whole groups of animals in different captive environments (Farmer, Plowman, and Leaver, 2011). It has been suggested by Dawkins (2004) that vocalisations are a welfare indicator as they can signal emotional states, where as behavioural observations can used as a measurement of welfare. Captive environments are understood to be less complex, provide less choice, is more predictable and easier to control animals than in wild habitats (Carlstead and Mcphee, 2010). Environmental enrichment is applied to captive environments to improve and encourage natural behaviours. In order to improve the welfare of an animal and encourage them to perform natural behaviours though modifications to its environment, the enrichment must be able to aim to improve the biological functions of an animal (Newberry, …show more content…
In response to this, enrichment must be able to address these three different concepts before being allowed on captive animals: complexity and novelty, choice and control (Buchanan-Smith, 2010). Physical and social needs can be addressed by increasing the complexity of an animal’s enclosure. The presence of enrichment can test their cognitive needs such as the introduction of tool use and puzzle boards as these can reduce the effects of habituation, as enclosures which have repetitive routines and non-stimulated environments can lead to the increase in stereotypical behaviours and boredom (Buchanan-Smith,