The Effects of Enrichment in Rehabilitating Eastern Pacific Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina richardii)

There is empirical support for the efficacy of enrichment in improving health and well-being in laboratory, agricultural, and zoo settings. However, little research has been done on the possible value of enrichment in facilitating successful reintroduction of rescued animals. This study extends the literature on enrichment to rehabilitation settings, and has implications for improving the welfare of rehabilitating seal pups and reducing the costs of rehabilitation.

Publication

 Chudeau, K.R., Johnson, S.P., & Caine, N.G. (2019). Enrichment reduces stereotypical behaviors and improves foraging development in rehabilitating Eastern Pacific Harbor Seals (Phoca vitulina richardii). Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 19, 104830. [more info]

More Info

Assessing the effects of enrichment on behavioral competency and cognition in wildlife rehabilitation

As part of my PhD research, I am examining how using enrichment in a rehabilitation setting influences foraging development and problem-solving ability of harbor seals (Phoca vitulina), elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris), and Hawaiian monk seals (Neomonachus schauinslandi).

Projects in Progress!