Enrichment for the animals

In nature, animals come across a tremendous amount of different things that they experience through different senses. Prey animals must be wary of predators, and predators can follow prey across long distances. In addition to finding food, animals spend a lot of time looking for a mate. When they are held in captivity, there is plenty of food and water around, the environment is safe and even a mate can be found nearby. To ensure that the animals have enough enjoyable things to do, zookeepers plan and arrange various enrichment activities for them.

When planning these activities, the natural temperament and behaviour of the species must be taken into account; the same kind of enrichment does not suit all animals. Nor can the same activities be used too often on the same animal to maintain their desired effect. In many cases, but not always, the enrichment activities have to do with food and finding it. At its simplest, an enrichment activity may consist of an activation toy, such as a ball, that many people have in their homes. Korkeasaari Zoo is constantly developing new enrichment activities for the animals. Studies constantly bring in new information concerning the needs that are crucial for the well-being of animals. This information is then utilised in the development of the activities. Experiences and ideas are also shared internationally as part of the cooperation between zoos.