A longitudinal exploration of protected contact and positive reinforcement training in elephants (2026)

Wilson, M. L., Kelling, A. S., Perdue, B. M.

Abstract

Training is an essential part of meeting the needs of elephants in human care. In particular, training in a protected contact environment inherently offers more control over the environment and the choice to perform requested behaviors, likely improving welfare. Here we present a follow-up assessment of caregiver and elephant behavior nearly 20 years after the initial transition from free to protected contact to explore any longitudinal changes and the potential effects of moving to a newly constructed exhibit. As with the previous study examining the initial transition to protected contact, the present study reports high levels of compliance with caregiver requests, even after nearly two decades and through a major transition in the environment. We propose that implementing longitudinal studies to periodically evaluate training programs and develop best practices for meeting the needs of elephants in human care are an important contributor to elephant welfare.