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The Need for Objective Indicators for Zoological
Species in Human Care
PROF. DR. ANASTASIA KOMNENOU
Veterinary Faculty
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Zoos adopt a great responsibility by keeping animals in captivity.
The mission and the challenges of most modern zoos, conservation
of endangered species, research in situ and ex situ, education
as well as recreation, have been largely criticized. Among
several ethical concerns, zoo animal welfare is on the first line.
A specific scientific definition of animal welfare is not possible,
since it represents a multidimensional subject. The ideas of the Five
Freedoms and the 3Rs primarily accepted as tools and a useful
guide of a science-based welfare evaluation of zoological species
in human care, are „ideals“ and it is important that there should
be some flexibility in their application. Zoo animal welfare covers a
broad spectrum of issues and concerns (veterinary medicine, animal
husbandry, environmental issues, education etc). Several methods
of assessment of the welfare status have been
developed so far, but since zoos vary greatly
in size, range of species maintained, focus of
their work, etc., it is difficult to establish an
appropriate protocol of review process, that
should be adopted by all. Thus, there is need of
developing proper and effective indicators that
should fit to the needs of every zoo and aquaria,
and could be implemented in all countries.
In order to achieve an holistic approach to
zoo animal welfare, a combination of direct
animal-based (behavioral, psysiological, clinical
and pathological) and indirect environmental
parameters/indicators should be taken into
account, since no single measurement on its
own is likely to be reliable. The development,
adoption and implementation of valid, reliable,
and standardized indicators is very challenging
and represents an essential and urgent priority
for zoo animal protection; these indicators
should be practical, relatively easy, inexpensive,
quick to perform and based on the species of
animals involved. A questionnaire should be
developed, readily applied, providing a first
quick screening, with no or minimal handling of animals, so that
valid and reliable evaluations could be achieved by non-specialists,
inspectors and others.
A second level assessment by specialists might be suggested,
depending on the outcome. Zoo standards worldwide should
allow laws to empower the authorities to enforce them. The
welfare of the animals is a priority. Zoos and aquaria have a unique
mission and an important and distinctive responsibility to provide
a good quality of life for their animals; natural life, mental health,
freedom and choices as well as dignity.
Full Presentation page 48-57
Prof. Dr. Anastasia Komnenou
Veterinary Faculty
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
St. Voutyra 11
Tel.: +30 (0) 31–994443
54627 Thessaloniki, Greece
Email:
Natakomn@vet.auth.gr16
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