STEREOTYPIC BEHAVIORS IN BEARS

Abstract

Confined bears are deprived of natural stimulus, such as large roaming domains, active foraging and enriched habitats, making them vulnerable to develop stereotypic behaviors. Motivation drives and neuro-pathological imbalance are the causes. Various stereotypic behavior types have been reported, including oral, head and locomotory related behaviors, and pacing are the most commonly seen. Stereotypic behavior level could be monitored using an observation-reporting system or fecal corticoid. Environmental and feeding enrichment are the proposed solutions; however, habituation could be developed. Parallel intermittent and consecutive environmental enrichment and unpredictable feeding schedule would be beneficial. Medication, especially long-term and low-dosage fluoxetine, was found to be effective in alleviating bear stereotypic behaviors.