Management of Zoo Animals

The space or distance plays an important role in the conspecific and interspecific interaction of zoo animals. Individual distance is the personal space that an animal prefers between itself and another member of its own species. The social distance is that which an animal maintains with other members of its social group. This might be thought of as a positive force that draws the individuals together and provides cohesiveness to the group. Critical distance is the space in which an animal may be approached by an 'enemy' or man before agonistic behavior is shown. If this distance is violated, the animal approached, if unable to escape, may threaten or attack the approaching individual. The flight distance is considered to be the space in which an animal will permit an enemy to approach before it begins to fly or run away. These above-mentioned 'distances' can be used as important tools for captive zoo management. There is another spatial concern for the zoo animals i.e. territory. Agonistic behavior consisting of aggression and its defensive response is closely interwoven with territoriality.