Reconnection with nature through empathy: rewiring people and animals by assessing zoo visitors' connection to species and the need for their conservation

Frontiers in Psychology, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 16

Published: March 17, 2025

As humans become more sensitive to global warming, due the visible effects on planet and our daily lives, particularly health (for example increase of zoonotic diseases exacerbated by deforestation), we have an increasing need reconnect with natural world (Greenwell et al., 2023;Johansson 2024). In cities, far from forests savannas, zoos bridge wild habitats, aiming encourage proximity connection between people animals. Zoos allow their visitors be close animals, in many cases for first time, while providing them basic information related ecology, behavior, conservation these species. zoos, friendly human-animal associations may further develop into bonds that positively influence both parties (Thomas 2023). Moreover, a better learning experience deeper connections animals understanding biodiversity (Moss 2017), are critical bad captive-wildlife tourist attractions (Sampaio 2021), willing donate actions (Ballantyne 2007;Howell 2019), increased desire visit (76% expressing see habitat [Adetola, & Akinboboye, 2020]). Most studies been focused few African countries, some European USA, Australia, largely overlooking non-western countries (MacNally While there exceptions, such as Wu al. (2017) China Musa (2015) Malaysia, relatively Asia. People's wildlife, beliefs attitudes towards needs, depend cultural socio-demographic traits (Ballentyne 2021;Breuer 2018;Thomas-Walters 2023), currently lack, how parts can effectively transmit messages tailored specific audiences. Japan, number zoo has last decades (Davey, 2007) physiological were studied. The mandatory quarantine was not imposed Japanese population during pandemic, indoor entertainment activities suspended. Nonetheless, most did doors pandemic one available public, contact wildlife. considered impact people's mental through "green prescribing" interventions (Rose Riley, 2022). Using psychological (mood states) physical indicators (i.e., blood pressure, salivary cortisol oxytocin levels), Akiyama colleagues (2021) found positive effect associated among sampled elderly Japanese. Similarly, Sakagami Ohta (2010) also decrease exercise, improved life sub-scale scores generic health-related evaluation questionnaire) participants all ages visiting two different zoos. However, little research done actual interactions emotional responses motivation preserving other words, connected is still poorly understood. Connection sense defined here innate, empathetic bond toward they observe, ranging absent neutral, high level connection. this Data report, survey visitants' support, feeling connectedness captive zoo, what relate transmission By focusing species, provide precise "target", which help reflect accurately answers. This approach expected yield sincere insightful responses, likely form genuine particular targeting species allows us understand elicit higher levels awareness viewing times.Permission conduct study obtained Japan Monkey Centre (No. 2022-05). Consent forms inquired following short explanation study, attesting anonymous data collected would used analysis only. No personal taking part surveys interfere participant's zoo. Questionnaires Chubu Gakuin University students provided before after class animal welfare behavioral observation lecture Comparative Cognitive Development.Two zoological parks included study: (JMC) Higashiyama Zoo Botanical Gardens (HZ), Japan. JMC home 60 primate Genus only, HZ hosts wide range plants. Both work closely researchers public education. August November 2022 May September 2023 HZ. Participants (aged above 16 years old) approached 10:00 16:00 opening hours. handed out paper within zoos' premises, non-visitors completed online version questionnaire. link questionnaire.Participants questionnaire demographic (sex, age, membership), favorite animal, 21 questions general aspects wildlife (adapted Howell 2019 andSkibins andPowell, 2013), additional free space comments. regarding consisted closed response options scaling (1 7) agreement items views (Supplementary material, Table 1). definition connection, respondents prior questionnaire.A total 630 questionnaires. Two groups undergraduate given twice: once A 56 replied occasions 53 either or trip. individuals who twice questionnaires ID codes ensure anonymity (others excluded). These divided 4 groups: 1) S22B stands Students Class Before trip 2) S22A After 3) S23B 4) S23A zoo.In terms gender distribution, 43 identified female university student population, 177 HZ, 159 JMC. For male respondents, 11 students, 123 101 "Other" any sex.All belonged GenZ generation. We classify Gen Z born 1995 and2015;Millennials 1980 and1994;Gen X 1965 and1979;and Baby Boomers those 1964 material 2).The percentages rate reported frequency interaction presented 1.The section Likert Scales Figure 1. Overall, exhibited varied distribution compared population. Responses often showed peaks at across multiple questions, indicating degree variability. contrast, demonstrated consistent pattern, frequently clustering around levels. questions.For each Cronbach's Alpha α≥ 0.9 when combining together. To compare findings (2019), adapted questionnaire, tested composite variables using shared 3). species-specific caring variable similar suggesting measure reliable comparable Howell's study. variables, internal consistency less robust. where fewer analysis, values ranged 0.6 0.7, questionable needed measure.In addition, populations, conducted Principal Component Analysis findings, same "species-specific caring". lower correlation (Pearson r-value= 0.3) but it suggests care about stronger perceived Still difference strength attributed differences, sample size.For preliminary statistical added Bayesian model fitted evaluate rates relation Q1-Q16 sex age classes, duration observation, point 1, question (Q1-Q16) predictor "Low" (Likert 2 "High" (items 5, 6 7), removing "4" (medium) address issue potential imbalance 7point scale. points 4, (continuous 1-7) were: Gender (women, men); Generation (Baby Boomer, X, Z, Millennial); Time spent categorized "Short" (less than 10 minutes), "Medium" (between 30 minutes) (more minutes); Interaction made "No" (absent), 5 seconds) "Long" seconds). able correlate regular (with visits zoo) new latter group much frequent. Gaussian family chains 2,000 iterations per chain. All analyses R 4.3.1, brms package 2.21.0. Statistical significance interpreted 95% highest posterior density interval.For visitors, correlates statements concerning interest in, protect, Across Q1-Q15, estimated sizes small moderate, corresponding credible intervals containing zero. Q16 ("Getting dangerous"), interval zero (E = 0.123, CI [-0.251, 0.498]), meaning no clear evidence association, risk assessment does 4). asked choose consequences getting habitat, take sites observe (Table 2). Noting respondent could results indicate prioritized risks injury importance maintaining safe distance acknowledge disease precautions vaccinations masks. prioritize testing COVID-19 pay extra safer conditions.Regarding differences regards sex-related mean males being 0.35 (95% CI: 0.10 0.61) females. significant noted generations comparing "Baby boomer" to: Estimate: -0.10, -0.48 0.27; 0.04, -0.37 0.44, Millennials -0.29, -0.66 0.08). (compared -0.02, -2.44 2.36; -2.46 2.42), neither Type 0.00, -2.38 2.40, -0.04, 2.43 (Figure 2, Supplementary Material descriptive results).Although scale questionindicating promotes learn protect (Carr, 2016;Howell 2019) -the disagreed approaching fact, answered "getting cause injury" (179 respondents) "disease transmission" (179) 252 grant clearer animal. shows despite supportive educational causes, romanticize underestimating encounters lack beyond observing safety glass enclosure's grid. Nevertheless, considering option, 223 admitted get vaccine 258 avoid sick, and, importantly, 547 said keep But only 79 test 162 wear masks, even though mask usage commonplace outbreak 2020.Zoos chance great tourists ages, education, socioeconomic backgrounds up-close encounter, without compromising habitats (Doodson 2023) simultaneously source domestic tourism recover faster international (Toyama, 2022;Kruger Viljoen, design, factors (social context, tradition, demography, etc.) impacted visitors' (Kruger important studying peoples' perceptions greater extent animals' welfare, health, living environment (Alba Some previous females younger perception women concerned individual men (Figueredo 2022;Alba tend captivity 2023;Gurusamy 2015) limitations exhibiting repertoire (Pacheco Madden, 2021) lead stress signals abnormal behavior 2017) detected visitors. Kruger Viljoen (2022) relationship conservation; similarly, recent meta-analysis McNally (2024) revealed samples proportion significantly smaller align observations, find marked cross-generational differences. Interestingly, contrasts Western populations. case, generational Older report according religious beliefs, environmental education received, regardless beliefs. cannot explore set, volunteer nature recruiting participants, older accept place, although true participants.Charismatic drive contribute satisfaction models attain (e.g., measures protection) because engage (Colleony 2017;Howell 2019;Consorte-McCrea 2019; Mariyam patterns nature-based tourism). endangered gorillas, along chimpanzees, charismatic 2016) elsewhere study.Visitors easily gorillas wishing preserve (Myers 2004;Parker 2018). Gorillas` flagship status facilitates raising includes 2007). Critically thought wider conservation, economy least concern (Spooner Aware effects, mediate exhibitions emphasize efforts instance, Maryland (Unites States) crucial development Mountain Gorilla Veterinary Project, operating (Escobar-Ibarra 2021). Other financial support maintenance Mbeli Bai lowland gorilla field site employing local nationals rangers assistants) contributed community projects area (Breuer 2018;but Squires a., 2016;Wilson 2019;Feilen 2018 examples Africa South America).Visitors make assumptions based feelings connections, conflict scientific naturally inactive certain ages; Parker foster understanding, must interpret familiarity increases interest. show motivated traditional programs Effective should integrate routines offer outcomes (Miller 2020). highlight direct links human loss palm oil production cobalt mining impacting orangutans gorillas. They threats pet trade lemurs, lorises) industries macaques). suggest actionable steps, simple committed, like sponsoring initiatives, joining efforts, partnering organizations, awareness. issues, meaningful, region-specific animals.It recognize delivered ways connect aimed apply balanced so its length time Besides, housed influenced potentially exposure others. variation layout design informational signage, newer quality responses. Additionally, offers interactive exhibits enter enclosures (squirrel monkeys ring-tailed lemurs island), whereas experience, differently.We intended include outside comparison. since consists solely students-most whom belonging Z-its comparison populations limited. control visitor amongst attempts serve future addition focus types housing facilities, sanctuaries recovery centers, limited locations expectations experiences.

Language: Английский

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A meta‐analysis of the effect of visiting zoos and aquariums on visitors’ conservation knowledge, beliefs, and behavior

Conservation Biology, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: Feb. 2, 2024

Abstract Zoos and aquariums are well placed to connect visitors with the issues facing biodiversity globally many deliver interventions that seek influence visitors’ beliefs behaviors respect conservation. However, despite primary studies evaluating effect of such interventions, overall engaging zoos factors this remain unclear. We conducted a systematic review investigate zoo‐led on knowledge, (attitudes, intentions, self‐efficacy, social norms), behavior among zoo visitors. These outcomes were identified using Theory Planned Behavior as theoretical lens. described nature in 56 used change technique (BCT) taxonomy identify 6 specific BCTs date. Multilevel meta‐analyses revealed small medium positive ( d + = 0.40, 95% confidence interval 0.28–0.51). Specifically, more knowledgeable about conservation issues, held favorable attitudes toward conservation, reported being likely act for benefit biodiversity. No evidence publication bias was present. Effect sizes were, however, heterogeneous subgroup analyses intervention or type outcome did not explain variance. Larger effects found at single institution relative research multiple institutions within‐participant designs between‐participant designs. Taken together, these findings demonstrate how frameworks can be describe supports assertion promote changes may help protect

Language: Английский

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An E-Delphi study to facilitate animal welfare assessment in Italian zoos and aquaria

PLoS ONE, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 20(1), P. e0309760 - e0309760

Published: Jan. 6, 2025

Ensuring animal welfare is a key aspect of management in zoological facilities and aquaria, representing pivotal facet their mission. Italy currently lacks comprehensive valuable assessment methodology for evaluating the captive animals. To address this gap, present study aimed to identify most important criteria that should be considered animals housed Italian zoos aquaria. pinpoint issue, we engaged experts with diverse backgrounds, structuring communication throughout an iterative process, by applying Delphi methodology. A pilot three rounds were administered online 74 experts, asking them a) validate relevant topics derived from current legislation guidelines divided into clusters: Care, Wellbeing, Regulation; b) assess relevance these across taxonomic groups; c) propose confirm indicators each identified topic; d) suggest refine list questions assessment. The results lists questions, one cluster, total 80 topics, 174 indicators, 272 experts. aspects included offer insights main consider welfare. Despite complexity huge amount species hosted limiting possibility cover single expert consultation, project actively addresses urgent need standardization assessment, contributing ongoing development regulations Italy. This especially given limited legislative framework, underscoring link between successful ex-situ conservation. These can basis fine-tuned protocols tested future projects aiming at self-assessment, thus supporting authority inspection processes.

Language: Английский

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Affecting Change: The Effect of a Human–Animal Interaction on Donation Giving

Anthrozoös, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown, P. 1 - 22

Published: Jan. 28, 2025

Language: Английский

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An Examination of Visitor and Tiger Activity Between Two Zoo Tiger Groups

Veterinary Medicine and Science, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 11(2)

Published: Feb. 28, 2025

ABSTRACT Sumatran tigers ( Panthera tigris sumatrae ) are currently listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List. In modern zoos, need to balance welfare of while maintaining visitor interest presents a significant challenge. The aim this study was assess behaviour five housed in two separate groups and habitat areas (male alone; female with three cubs), well relation crowd size sound intensity (dB) near habitats. Five categories (active, inactive, social, repetitive other) were observed analysed. most frequent for all inactivity. only differences tiger behaviours lower social male alone compared both cubs. Sound intensity, which measured public viewing area positively correlated size, significantly louder cub area. A larger female/cub well. Crowd groups/habitats, Results discussed context animal captive tigers, promotion coexistence zoo visitors manner that supports education/entertainment.

Language: Английский

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The Heritage of Polish Zoological Gardens – Architectural and Artistic Monuments and their Contemporary Presentation

International Journal of Conservation Science, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 16(1), P. 101 - 124

Published: March 15, 2025

The aim of this article is to introduce, present and highlight the importance historical buildings works art in Polish zoos. It focuses on strategies for managing cultural heritage. uses mainly descriptive methods through case studies chosen their effectiveness illustrating complex individual solutions. findings suggest that common practices preserving architectural artistic heritage include maintaining existing state with possible reuse, creative adaptation isolation partial restoration essential elements, or relocation valuable elements. Previous research zoo facilities has mostly focused changes breeding display requirements impact spatial development. This fills gap by providing evidence how managed used within operating facilities. results show selected institutions there a certain level awareness value historic objects modern zoos, leading proper conservation further use display. However, observations indicate management processes have led irreversible alterations demolitions. contributes body knowledge two ways: first, initiating discussion adaptive zoos second, examples highlighting successful practices.

Language: Английский

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Reach and Effectiveness of Conservation Translocations When Founder Animals Are Sourced From Zoos

Animal Conservation, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown

Published: March 25, 2025

ABSTRACT Conservation translocations (e.g., reintroductions) are an important tool to replenish wildlife populations and manage biodiversity in lieu of emerging threats around the globe. Determining available effective founder animal sources evaluating outcomes conservation critical help mitigate challenges maximize opportunities. Zoos aquaria have a history broad engagement, but global assessment that used zoo‐sourced animals is lacking. We reviewed publications sourced founders from zoos ( n = 117) qualitatively quantitatively assessed trends factors associated with post‐release monitoring (PRM) duration author‐perceived project outcomes. Confirmed reproduction occurring recipient population(s) was longer PRM durations. Projects having long‐term objectives ex situ preconditioning (i.e., enriched for adaptability) had lower odds author‐deemed translocation failure. Notably, rate perceived failures among projects (8.6%) when compared broader various (20.9%). zoo reach across varying species risk statuses, although common regional taxonomic biases remain. This review provides support can lead identifies useful linked unsuccessful Founder quality over quantity may be key—sourcing individuals optimal survival viability long term will paramount. standardized reporting all recommend practitioners opportunities engage early planning stages assess feasibility inform strategies facilitate situ–in spectrum.

Language: Английский

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Zoos and other organisations with living world impacts should have honest policies

Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: unknown, P. 106618 - 106618

Published: March 1, 2025

Language: Английский

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Elephant research challenges and opportunities: A global bibliometric analysis

Ecological Informatics, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 82, P. 102662 - 102662

Published: June 7, 2024

The Asian elephant (Elephas maximus), also known as Asiatic is facing a significant decline in its wild populations due to habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation, leading increased conflicts between humans elephants. Preserving this iconic species crucial, prompting researchers explore various aspects of biology, behavior, ecology conservation efforts. In light the profound importance subject, study utilizes descriptive systematic literature review (SLR) examine global research trends on Analyzing dataset 1780 articles spanning from 1914 2022, reveals notable increase publications, particularly since 2000, with 142 published 2022 alone. This provides comprehensive overview advancements studies, promoting international collaboration knowledge exchange among researchers. While scientific countries can aid efforts, there call for more inclusive, participatory fair approaches. demonstrates commitment Equity, Inclusion Diversity (EID) by adopting multifaceted approach that considers needs, perspectives contributions diverse stakeholders. By addressing disparities advocating social justice within conservation, emphasizes urgent need collective action welfare improvement, conflict resolution, ecosystem balance overall enhancement understanding about Serving valuable resource policymakers, organizations researchers, not only synthesizes existing but identifies gaps, highlights areas requiring immediate attention, offers collaborative opportunities scientists contribute well-being preservation majestic species.

Language: Английский

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The Role of Zoos and Aquariums in Contributing to the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework

Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens, Journal Year: 2023, Volume and Issue: 4(2), P. 445 - 461

Published: May 18, 2023

It is now well established that human-induced species extinctions and habitat degradation are currently occurring at unprecedented rates. To halt reverse this decline, the international community adopted Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), as part of Package, in December 2022. We clarify what new framework means for conservation zoos aquariums their mission to prevent extinction by highlighting areas focus. explain why it necessary establish appropriate mechanisms contributing towards such a help validate role 21st Century. Conservation should be reassured much work already fits within GBF. However, current individual directly contribute implementation GBF mostly rely on close collaboration with national governments and/or only possible level. therefore critical national, regional, global zoo membership organisations take leading championing members. Equally, adequately linking efforts instruments, GBF, imperative ensure these organizations’ contributions feed into understanding we have progress instruments.

Language: Английский

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