Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens

This study investigates how virtual reality (VR) experiences influence tourists’ intentions to visit Da Lat, Vietnam, as a botanical destination, emphasizing the mediating roles of enjoyment and immersion. By integrating flow theory with the Information Systems Success model, this research develops a comprehensive framework explaining how content quality, system quality, and VR vividness shape user engagement and travel intentions. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), the study analyzes survey data from 231 valid responses out of 240 participants. The findings reveal that content quality, system quality, and vividness significantly enhance enjoyment and immersion, which subsequently have a positive impact on travel intentions. The study contributes to the tourism and consumer experience literature by demonstrating how multisensory engagement in VR fosters decision-making. Theoretical implications include extending flow theory within virtual tourism and highlighting the joint influence of technological and perceptual factors on user behavior. Practically, these insights inform tourism marketers on optimizing VR environments to evoke emotional engagement and enhance destination appeal through immersive technology. Full article

For the effective management of captive animals, monitoring their behavior and interactions within the exhibit is essential. This approach provides insights into their welfare and helps identify behavioral differences compared to conspecifics in the wild. This ex situ study aimed to provide more insights about the behavior of a pair of siamangs residing at the Wildlife Park “Le Cornelle” in Valbrembo, Italy. The focus was on their behavior, and observations were conducted during two distinct periods (May–June 2021 and December 2021) to identify any seasonal differences. In both periods, the most frequent behaviors observed were resting, feeding, and allogrooming. Compared to conspecifics in the wild, allogrooming and singing occurred more frequently. Spatial analysis indicated a higher utilization of outdoor spaces than the tunnel and indoor areas, with statistically significant variations for both periods. The spatial analysis of singing behavior showed an equal use of outdoor and indoor areas during the first observation period. However, in the second observation period, a preference for indoor spaces was observed, likely due to lower recorded temperatures. More observations are needed to identify the factors influencing behavior, but it is clear that continuous monitoring plays a vital role in promptly addressing deviations or anomalies in animal behavior. Full article

It is surprising that, despite focusing on delivering engaging and informative content to zoo and aquarium visitors nationwide, relatively few zoos or aquariums incorporate culture or the extensive species and place-based knowledge of local communities, also known as traditional ecological knowledge (or TEK). In an exploratory study of educational programming at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s five zoo and aquarium institutions, we found that only 15% of onsite signage, webpages, and in-person animal programs used cultural or TEK elements to educate visitors. The TEK presented was primarily limited to a place or cultural group’s name only or an image of native communities who live in the region where a particular species originated. We found little to no focus on providing more detailed accounts of the knowledge of the many different communities contributing to conservation at a local level. We conclude there are many opportunities for further research and for informal education facilitates to readily incorporate culture and TEK into existing exhibits and programming. Extending relationships with local native community members and integrating indigenous perspectives, among other strategies, can extend a zoo’s reach in novel ways. Full article

Faecal parasitological examination of three red kangaroos (Osphranter rufus) newly arrived at Sofia Zoo, Bulgaria, revealed infestation with nematode eggs. The animals were successfully treated with albendazole and ivermectin. Adult nematodes obtained after deworming the kangaroos were identified as gastric strongylids of the species Rugopharynx australis (Mönnig, 1926). The initially collected faecal samples were used to follow the development of the parasites, in particular, the viability of the larvae hatching from the eggs. Morphometric and molecular data as well as some epidemiological observations of the species in the present materials are provided. The study provides the first morphological description of the free-living, infective third-stage larvae of the species. It is also the first record of R. australis in captive-bred kangaroos on the European continent. Full article

Good enclosure design is central to the improvement of conditions for animals housed in zoos and aquaria, yet the study of a priori enclosure design or post hoc through Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) is somewhat limited in the scientific literature. The concept of trialing novel exhibit components before enclosure construction, through a process known as Temporary Exhibit Design (TED), was recently proposed as a strategy to prevent problems that often occur as a result of untested exhibit creation, with a view to ultimately improve welfare outcomes and reduce subsequent exhibit redevelopment. In this paper, we consider the potential input required from three key enclosure design stakeholders: the animal, the visitor, and zoo staff. We also consider the potential benefits for each of these stakeholders when participating in TED, alongside the wider zoo organizational benefits. TED has the potential to reduce construction costs and post-construction redevelopment, enhance animal welfare, and ensure that educational messages are effectively communicated. Full article

Arequipa, situated in the arid Atacama Desert, is experiencing significant biodiversity loss due to unchecked urban growth. This study presents the design of a Botanical Garden to address this issue by serving as a conservation center for native flora. A baseline assessment was conducted to evaluate meteorological conditions, soil properties, and the quality of treated wastewater from the “La Escalerilla” plant. The analysis revealed a semi-arid climate with low precipitation and suitable soil conditions. A total of 685 plant species were identified and proposed for conservation within the garden, with a high proportion of endemic species. To protect the future plant species, a living fence composed of 700 individuals was installed, considering resilient species such as Molle serrano (Schinus molle), Cantuta (Cantua buxifolia), and Huaranguillo (Tephrosia cinerea), which were installed at an average height of 50 cm and have grown to an average of 80 cm after 8 months. This study demonstrates the feasibility of establishing a botanical garden in Arequipa’s arid environment and serves as a model for future botanical garden projects in arid regions at the national and regional levels, providing a foundation for natural landscapes in urban areas. Full article

Human activities significantly contribute to the biodiversity crisis, yet wildlife tourism can promote appreciation for animals and encourage conservation. This study assessed the impact of diving and snorkeling programs at Atlantis Dubai on tourists’ emotional connections with marine life and their conservation attitudes and pro-environmental behavioral intentions. In 2023 and 2024, 346 participants were surveyed before (n = 172) and after (n = 174) their experiences diving and snorkeling with elasmobranchs. Results indicated a notable increase in positive feelings toward sharks and rays, strengthening connections and respect for these creatures. The program positively influenced attitude toward sharks, making participants more inclined to support their protection and foster a deeper connection with the ocean. Although participants’ willingness to recycle improved, overall conservation attitudes and willingness to engage in broader pro-environmental behaviors showed minor change. However, the heightened positive emotions towards sharks resulted in improved perceptions of these animals, stronger conservation attitudes, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. A deeper connection with the ocean reduced fear of sharks. This research suggests that wildlife tourism can facilitate emotional connections with marine life, potentially inspiring conservation action and highlighting the need for targeted strategies to transform these emotional bonds into lasting pro-environmental behaviors. Full article

Until recently, the sihek (Guam kingfisher, Todiramphus cinnamominus) has persisted entirely in managed care since a breeding program was established in the 1980s. Understanding the growth and developmental milestones of the sihek from hatch to fledging is critical to enhancing conservation efforts and improving management practices that promote positive welfare. In this study, we summarized data collected on the growth patterns, developmental milestones, and rearing differences in sihek chicks raised at Brookfield Zoo Chicago from 1989 to 2023. We found that hand-reared chicks reached the fledging stage significantly earlier than parent-reared chicks that received supplemental feeding from staff. Additionally, we found that hatch weight was a significant predictor of survival to fledging, highlighting the importance of collecting weight data at all stages of life. These insights into sihek development in managed care provide important data for the development of welfare-focused management practices that improve the success of conservation efforts while also prioritizing the wellbeing of each individual chick. Full article

Numerous previous studies indicate that both wild hedgehogs and those kept as pets pose a significant risk to human health. At the same time, humans can also transmit various pathogens to hedgehogs (e.g., human herpesvirus 1). The risk of human infection from hedgehogs by various bacteria, viruses, fungi, rickettsiae, and parasites, and of hedgehog infection from humans, arises from close contact with pet hedgehogs, wild hedgehogs, and/or the contaminated environment which they cohabit with humans. People can also come into close contact with hedgehogs in city parks, rescue and rehabilitation centers, gardens, suburbs, and zoos. Numerous zoos keep different species of hedgehogs, which are often used for education and interaction with visitors, especially children. In spite of certain preventive measures, periodic examinations, and disease controls being carried out, the possibility of the transmission of infectious diseases from hedgehogs to visitors and employees is not excluded. Close contact poses a risk, especially if biosecurity is not properly maintained. The anthropological effects of coexistence, habitat sharing, and frequent human intrusion into hedgehog habitats have disrupted the natural relationship between humans and animals, and have led to an increase in the prevalence of various pathogens. Although many different pathogens have been isolated in hedgehogs, there is a need to study some of them in more detail and to understand their interaction and transmission possibilities, as well as zoonotic and reverse zoonotic pathogens. Full article

The present study is based on a follow-up of a survey carried out in 2000, consisting in the revisitation of ten sites, with the scope of assessing changes in the composition and richness of epiphytic macrolichens within Cluj-Napoca city over the past 24 years. Within this period most of the polluting factories from the city outskirts were closed but in turn, the number of registered cars increased almost six-fold. An increasing compositional homogenization by contribution of generalist, stress-tolerant species was detected over time while total lichen taxa richness declined, which is mostly imputable to the synergic effects of intense car traffic and warmer/drier summers. Most sites displayed a compositional change along a weak, mixed gradient of eutrophication and xerophitization. Only two sites (located on the windy, Someș valley bottom) experienced a compositional change from higher to lower trophicity levels. Other two sites (positioned on more sheltered hillsides) displayed unfavourable dynamics in terms of lost species. Unexpectedly, the number of epiphytic lichen taxa at site level has, on average, increased over time, but the main contributors were poleotolerant species. The warming trend, due to climate change and local heat sources, is expected to worsen the negative effects of air-borne pollutants on the composition of the epiphytic lichen species pool within the Cluj-Napoca urban area. Full article

Jaguars play a crucial role in population control across multiple biomes. They are endangered and protected by in situ and ex situ conservation mechanisms to ensure their conservation. Cardiovascular diseases in wild mammals, including jaguars, often have unclear etiopathogenies, underscoring the need for research into novel hemodynamic parameters. This study evaluates the cardiovascular health of fifteen clinically healthy jaguars using conventional and Holter electrocardiography, non-invasive systemic blood pressure measurement, and echocardiography. Chemical restraint was achieved with medetomidine (0.08–0.1 mg/kg) and ketamine (5 mg/kg), with anesthesia reversed using atipamezole (0.25 mg/kg). The average heart rate was 72 ± 18 bpm, with sinus rhythm in ten animals and sinus arrhythmia in five. Six animals exhibited first and second-degree atrioventricular blocks, one had supraventricular complexes, and another had premature ventricular complexes. Non-invasive systolic blood pressure remained stable at 163 ± 29 mmHg during anesthesia. Echocardiographic examination revealed mitral, tricuspid, pulmonary, and aortic valve insufficiencies via color Doppler. The transmitral flow showed a normal E/A ratio and E` < A`, suggesting a pseudonormal ventricular filling pattern. No significant anesthetic complications were observed, affirming the protocol’s safety. This study provides valuable data, validating the anesthetic protocol and establishing reference cardiovascular values for jaguars, thus paving the way for future research in other veterinary species. Full article

The growing popularity of reptiles has contributed to their reproduction in captivity. When subjected to stressful environments, such as the presence of a higher number of humans and animals, reptiles may become more susceptible to parasites. Endoparasites in captive animals may cause several clinical signs ranging from mild to severe: lethargy, anorexia, diarrhea, cloacal/penile prolapse, infertility, intestinal malabsorption syndrome, and weight loss, among others. This study aimed to assess the presence of gastrointestinal parasites in fecal samples of reptiles from a Portuguese zoo through two techniques: a fecal flotation test (using a saturated sodium chloride solution) and Mini-FLOTAC. Ninety-nine samples belonging to 22 different animal species were collected and analyzed. Parasites were identified in 53.5% of the samples. Chelonians had a higher frequency (100%), followed by lizards (56.8%) and snakes (47.4%). The eggs/oocysts found were oxyurids (36.4%), strongylids/Kalicephalus sp. (8.1%), Eimeria sp. (5.1%), Hymenolepis spp. (5.1%), ascarids (4.0%), and Isospora sp. (2.0%). Both techniques presented the same results for each sample. The high prevalence of oxyurids, as well as of other parasites, can be explained by possible environmental contamination as these reptiles are kept in captivity. This study indicated the importance of assessing parasitic infections in reptiles in zoos, where routine coprological examinations should always be considered, as well as adequate prophylaxis. Full article

Zoos and botanical gardens have a special role in the promotion, presentation and conservation of biodiversity in urbanised environments. Additionally, they provide special habitats for alien and invasive species. The formerly used methods of biodiversity assessments (e.g., light trapping, transect counts, etc.) are mostly labour-intensive and/or not efficient enough. In the Zoo of Debrecen, the efficacy and suitability of a synthetic (FLO) and a semisynthetic (SBL) lure for this purpose were proven. The qualitative and quantitative compositions of a moderately rich moth assemblage including 52 moth species were revealed, and the appearance and population dynamics of three invasive (Helicoverpa armigera, Autographa gamma and Cydalima pespectalis) and nine harmful pest species were also recorded. The results proved that the lures tested and traps used provide an easy-to-use, standardised and relatively cheap method for Zoos and botanical gardens to assess their biodiversity even in the case of limited resources. Full article

Tropical forest hornbills display complex social and reproductive behaviours that make them hard to reliably and frequently breed in ex situ facilities. This study investigated potential behavioural indicators of pair compatibility for two wreathed hornbills (Rhyticeros undulatus) at ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo. We focused on behaviours linked to reproductive investment, such as time spent in proximity, vocalisation, and courtship display. Through systematic observations using ZooMonitor, we recorded behavioural and enclosure use data, as well as visitor presence. Key findings revealed that the male hornbill was more active and exploratory than the female. Courtship behaviours were more frequently performed by the male bird and were positively associated with perching at elevated positions. However, this behaviour decreased when the birds were in close proximity or inactive. Visitor presence influenced enclosure use, with the hornbills preferring higher perches during peak visitor times. We conclude that behaviours such as proximity, vocalisations, and courtship displays could potentially serve as indicators of compatibility in hornbill pairs but more data across more birds are needed for validation. Finally, we advocate for enclosure designs that consider hornbills’ natural behaviours and social needs to help ex situ facilities promote an environment conducive to pair bonding. Full article

We applied social cognitive career theory and systems theory to explore the barriers that historically excluded groups face when pursuing animal care careers at U.S. zoos and aquariums. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research combines survey data (N = 592) and interviews (N = 15) from zoo and aquarium animal care staff, including zookeepers, veterinarians, and aquarists. The findings show that historically excluded groups of animal caretakers report higher levels of perceived barriers to securing zoo positions compared to White animal caretakers, particularly in career awareness, self-efficacy, mentorship, and access to internship opportunities. Statistical analyses of animal caretakers revealed a statistically significant difference between historically excluded groups and their White colleagues. Historically excluded groups experience more challenges in securing and succeeding in animal care careers. While institutional barriers did not differ significantly between groups, this study underscores the need for zoos to address systemic inequities and create more inclusive environments. These findings are critical for zoos aiming to diversify their staff and enrich their decision-making processes. Full article

Vaccination constitutes one of the most important means of preventing infectious disease in captive nonhuman primates (NHPs). Vaccination protocols for NHPs vary, as they are mostly guided by institutional preference, infection pressure, local availability, and recommendations by non-peer reviewed resources. Currently, no updated literature review about vaccination options for NHP is available. Therefore, we provide a detailed overview of published vaccination options for NHP. Our findings demonstrate that, while there are often insufficient scientific data to justify their use, the core vaccines used in most NHP species confer protection against tetanus, rabies, and measles. Where information is available, efficacy expectations, adverse effects, dosages and frequency of administration are provided. We advocate that the decision to vaccinate NHP for less common diseases, for which an off-label vaccine is available, should be grounded in a comprehensive risk assessment. This assessment should consider factors specific to the individual animal, the vaccine, the housing institution, the epidemiology of the disease, and relevant regulatory and ethical considerations. Full article

Avian malaria has been a continuous problem in both wild and captive populations of penguins throughout the world. In Japan, where there are over 3000 captive penguins, avian malaria (by Plasmodium spp.) and haemoproteosis (by Haemoproteus spp.) have been sporadically detected throughout the country. However, no comprehensive studies have been carried out, and the national status of infection has been unknown until now. In this study, the prevalence and lineage composition of haemosporidian parasites was investigated in captive penguins throughout Japan for the first time. A total of 1203 penguins from 55 facilities were sampled from January 2010 to December 2019. Parasites were detected by nested PCR and microscopy of blood and tissue samples. The total prevalence was 7.48% for Plasmodium and 1.75% for Haemoproteus, of which some are suggested to have been acquired during the study period. The odds of infection were higher in individuals kept outdoors compared to indoors, re-confirming that exposure to vectors is one of the major factors. Additionally, the odds of death were higher in infected individuals, although differences between parasite lineages were also observed. This study provides an overview of avian malaria in penguins of Japan in the hope of guiding future studies and conservation actions in captivity. Full article

Tacinga inamoena (K. Schum.) N.P. Taylor & Stuppy (Cactaceae, Opuntioideae) is a native Brazilian species found in the Caatinga phytogeographic domain. Although its flowers are adapted for bird pollination (ornithophily), few birds visit these plants in the ex situ collection at the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden. Despite this, fruit production occurs, prompting an investigation into the floral visitors and other animals interacting with T. inamoena flowers. This study aimed to identify floral visitors and quantify florivory damage to flowers in the Cacti and Succulents thematic collection. During the study, 79 flowers were monitored, along with their floral visitors and 26 instances of florivory, totaling 110 observation hours during the anthesis period. Despite recording only five hummingbird visits, a high fruit set was observed, with 72 fruits formed. Results indicated that bees of the genus Trigona sp. were the main floral visitors. Florivory damage, primarily caused by lizards of the species Tropidurus torquatus (Wied-Neuwied, 1820), did not negatively impact fruit formation in this cactus species under cultivation. To fully understand the reproductive success of this species, further studies are needed to assess the viability of seeds formed under these conditions, as the species may be self-compatible and autogamous. Full article