Behavioral effects of enrichment caging on a cynomolgus colony (2001)

Straeter, P., Loud, D., Howard, R. et al.

Abstract

Due to the aggressive nature of these animals [male cynos], use of new cohousing paradigms was not an option, and alternate methods for environmental enrichment were explored. ... We purchased three folding mobile-enrichment pens, each providing 24 ft2 of floor space and 6 ft of vertical height for animals to move about. The units are large enough for us to include multiple enrichment devices. ... It was obvious that these units were a positive addition ... and the animals exhibited a variety of intriguing behaviors not seen in their typical cage. Furthermore, we were able to comingle males that had previously been restricted to single housing due to their aggressive nature toward one another. ... Providing a more spacious and stimulating environment for these social animals has proven to be an added improvement. [Abstract has also been published in:Straeter P, Loud D, Howard R, Taylor T 2001. Behvioral effects of enrichment caging on a cynomolgus colony. 2001 AASAS Official Program, 106.]