Percepção pública sobre o enriquecimento ambiental em zoológico

Abstract

Environmental enrichment is one of the ways to ensure respect and well-being for wild animals in captivity, contributing to a welcoming, safe, natural, and especially interactive environment. This study aimed to present the importance of Environmental Enrichment (EE) for wild animals kept in captivity from a social perception perspective. To achieve this, a qualitative and quantitative survey was conducted through a structured questionnaire with eleven objective questions applied to visitors of the Bioparque Zoobotânico in Teresina - PI, created using Google Forms. A total of 202 visitors were interviewed in person, and the data were analyzed. Most respondents were female (63.4%), aged between 18 and 25 years (50%), and had incomplete higher education (36.6%). The majority reported understanding the concept of animal welfare (79.2%) and recognized the importance of enclosures that simulate natural habitats (89.6%). It was noted that 47% of visitors considered the enclosures to be small or poorly maintained, as well as the absence of EE (40.1%). Visitors suggested improvements, such as more attractive enrichment features (53%), emphasizing that welfare is essential for the ethical keeping of animals in captivity. The research highlighted the need for a more enriched environment for the species and showed that the zoo's audience demonstrates positive environmental awareness, understanding the requirements to provide animals with a quality environment that respects their well-being