Checklist for enrichment plan
Systematic planning of enrichment per species
§Map the animal's natural behaviour
- 01What natural behavioural needs does the species have (foraging, burrowing, climbing, social contact)?
- 02Which of these needs are difficult to meet in the current system?
- 03Are there signs of boredom or stereotyped behaviour?
§Cover the different types of enrichment.
- 01Feed enrichment — hidden scattered or hard to access feed.
- 02Physical enrichment — structure, hiding, climbing or digging opportunities.
- 03Social enrichment — socialising with fellow species where it is natural.
- 04Sensory enrichment — scents sounds and new objects.
- 05Cognitive enrichment — problem-solving and feeding puzzles.
§Individual milling task
- 01Check that materials are harmless and cannot be swallowed or injured.
- 02Vary the enrichment so it does not become predictable and boring.
- 03Observe and note whether the animal uses the enrichment.
- 04Adjust the plan based on what you see working.