Stereotypic Pacing in Two Imprinted Florida Black Bears (Ursus americanus floridanus)

Authors

Crystal Gagne, University of Central Florida

Mentor

Frank Logiudice

Abstract

Stereotypic pacing is a common occurrence in captive carnivorans. Although stereotypic pacing is typically associated with poor welfare, the cause of pacing is not fully understood. In this study, two captive Florida black bears (Ursus americanus floridanus) were observed twice a week for ten weeks, along with zookeeper presence as well as the location and number of guests. Zookeeper presence was associated with a decrease in time spent pacing (P < 0.05). The male bear in the study spent a larger percent of time pacing in front of guests (average: 43.2% ± 1.0% SD) compared to the female (average: 6.2% ± 1.4% SD), P < 0.05). Male dominance is the most likely explanation for the variance seen in pacing in front of guests. Observing how guests and zookeepers impact stereotypic pacing can help provide an understanding of the cause of stereotypic pacing and improve the welfare of captive animals.

About the Author

Crystal Gagne is a graduate from the biology department of the University of Central Florida. She graduated summer of 2018 with a UCF GPA of 3.9, receiving a degree in Biology with a subfocus in Zoology and Pre-Vet studies. Through volunteering in the Science and Planning in Conservation Ecology lab, she has had the opportunity to analyze the behavior of Florida black bears and work in ArcGIS. Her primary interests are evolutionary biology, ecology, and animal behavior.

Recommended Citation

Gagne, Crystal (2019) "Stereotypic Pacing in Two Imprinted Florida Black Bears (Ursus americanus floridanus)," The Pegasus Review: UCF Undergraduate Research Journal: Vol. 10: Iss. 2, Article 6.
Available at: https://stars.library.ucf.edu/urj/vol10/iss2/6