The Five Freedoms and Zoo Ethics

Question 1

What are the 5 freedoms?

Answer 1

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst
2. Freedom from discomfort
3. Freedom from pain, injury and disease
4. Freedom to express normal behaviours
5. Freedom from fear and distress

Question 2

How could these be applied to zoo animals?

Answer 2

1. Ensure access to clean/fresh water and appropriate food for the species
2. Substrate, bedding and shelter should be taken into account as well as drainage. May also need to consider the climate of origin.
3. Reduce invasive handling/porcedures. Have good general hygeine. Veterinary care.
4. Behaviour is a basic need (space, social and enrichment.
5. hiding areas and enclosures should be away from noise.

Question 3

Why is enrichment needed in the zoo environment?

Answer 3

Environments are static in captivity so animals need the additional stimulation, which also needs to be varied.

It can be used to promote good behaviors whilst deterring bad ones.

Question 4

Are there any problems zoos might face when trying to implement the 5 freedoms?

Answer 4

The needs of the animals and visitors often need to be balanced.

Some may conflict, prey species cant express behaviours of being predated but are free from fear. Predatory species may not be able to hunt.

It is hard to assess behaviour and welfare in animals so it is not always clear what the exact requirements are.

Question 5

How does enrichemnt needs vary with animal diets/feeding behaviour?

Answer 5

Specialists need less, generalists need more as they are constantly active.