Using behavioral enrichment to further the understanding of the tayra’s (Eira barbara) natural history

A. Ista, Zookeeper

Milwaukee County Zoo

Wisconsin , USA

amandaista@hotmail.com

When starting a new operant conditioning and enrichment program, it is generally suggested that the animal’s natural history is thoroughly researched. This is done in order to understand the animal’s behavior, diet, and other interactions with its natural environment. Researching these histories helps keepers to set realistic goals for their program to reach. When this information is sparse and the zoological population of the species is low, setting these goals becomes more difficult. How does a keeper then go about producing a successful and beneficial behavioral enrichment program for their animal?

The tayra (Eira barbara) is a medium-sized omnivorous mustelid native to Central and South America . Although this mammal is relatively common in its home range, it is rare in zoos with only twelve currently listed in North American zoos and fewer than forty in zoos worldwide. The tayra is active both day and night, making for an excellent display animal but also making it prone to stereotypic behaviors and a challenge for routine medical procedures. Keepers at Milwaukee County Zoo were interested in implementing a behavior enrichment program to enhance welfare, curtail pacing, and overall improve management for this species. This poster will explore the ways in which operant conditioning and enrichment accomplished these goals as well as helping us gain a better understanding of the tayra’s natural history.