Function of play in behavioral enrichment of captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus)

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: This research determined if enrichment items could be used as an effective tool for stress reduction in captive Asian elephants. Subjects were 3 male and 7 female Asian elephants with an age range of 9 months to 52 years of age housed at Dickerson Park Zoo in Springfield, Missouri. Enrichment devices which required natural movement and behavior, relived stress, and promoted a sense of well-being were designed and constructed by qualified zoo personnel and included Tire, Fiddle Chain, Browse, Chimes, and Pin Wheel. Behavioral data were collected using an ethogram to assess play behavior and divided into four major behavioral categories: Play, Responses, Eating and Vocalizations. An enrichment item was placed in an enclosure for 1 hour and behavioral observations were recorded at one minute intervals when an elephant was within 3 feet of the item.

Findings and Conclusions: The enrichment items promoted play and reduced stress. Browse provided an enriching experience but did not fit within the perimeters of play. The Pin Wheel proved to be unsafe. The Fiddle Chain, Chimes, and Tire were effective as enrichment items for elephants. Six of the eight variables did influence elephant play, but Inside/Outside Play and Reproductive Status did not.