Every day brings opportunities for our animals to explore, solve problems, build confidence, and strengthen the trusting relationships they have with their keepers. Those experiences enrich their lives while helping us provide the very best care possible.
Whenever we work with them, we use something called “choice-based welfare”. This means that the animal has the choice of working with us or not. Maybe there’s a time when they choose not to participate. That’s OK. We never force our ambassadors to do something.
We also never withhold food to encourage new behaviors. Our ambassadors receive their full daily diets. They simply earn some of those favorite treats while learning something new.
Chalupa, one of our Patagonian cavies, has learned that spending a few minutes in his crate while our keepers care for the wallabies is a rewarding experience. He willingly goes inside because he knows a favorite treat is waiting, making husbandry time easier for the keepers and completely stress-free for Chalupa.
Sabi, our serval, has learned to walk confidently with his keepers to our Cat Chat area, where he meets guests. Along the way, he’s also become comfortable participating in routine health care, including nail trims, vaccinations, and even blood draws when needed.
These voluntary behaviors reduce stress for Sabi and often eliminate the need for sedation—a tremendous benefit for his long-term health.
Archie, our Great Horned Owl, especially enjoys hopping onto a keeper’s arm for one of his little “safaris” around Wild Wonders. New sights, sounds, and experiences provide wonderful enrichment, and Archie lets everyone know he’s having a good time with his quiet little coos.
Summer vacation may have arrived for students, but our ambassadors keep showing us that learning can be one of life’s greatest enrichments. When learning is rewarding, every day is a school day—and everyone has fun.
