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Giraffe make decisions based on statistical information

The ability to make inferences based on statistical information has so far been tested only in animals having large brains in relation to their body size, like primates and parrots. Here we tested if giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis), despite having a smaller relative brain size, can rely on relative frequencies to predict sampling outcomes. We presented them with two transparent containers fled with different quantities of highly-liked food and less-preferred food. The experimenter covertly drew one piece of food from each container,

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Social networks research in ex situ populations: Patterns, trends, and future directions for conservation‐focused behavioral research

Social networks research using non‐human animals has grown over the past decade, utilizing a wide range of species to answer an array of pure and applied questions. Network approaches have relevance to conservation, evaluating social influences on fecundity, health, fitness and longevity. While the application of network approaches to in situ populations with conservation concern appears in published literature, the degree to which ex situ and zoo‐housed populations are the focus of “social networks for conservation research” is limited. Captive

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Monitoring the behavioral and adrenal Aactivity of giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) to assess welfare during seasonal housing changes

In inclement weather, northern zoos are required to provide animals from warmer climates with indoor exhibits. These indoor exhibits are typically smaller, lack natural substrate, and have lower levels of stimulation for the animals. The purpose of this study was to examine the welfare of four reticulated giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis reticulata) exhibited at the Chicago Zoological Society – Brookfield Zoo – during the summer in an outdoor enclosure compared to the winter in an indoor enclosure. A combination of direct

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