Changes in human health parameters associated with an immersive exhibit experience at a zoological institution

Abstract

Zoological institutions often use immersive, naturalistic exhibits to create an inclusive atmosphere that is inviting for visitors while providing for the welfare of animals in their collections. In this study, we investigated physiological changes in salivary cortisol and blood pressure, as well as psychological changes among visitors before and after a walk through the River's Edge, an immersive, naturalistic exhibit at the Saint Louis Zoo. Study participants had a significant reduction in salivary cortisol and blood pressure after walking through the exhibit. Psychological assessments of mood found that most visitors felt happier, more energized, and less tense after the visit. Additionally, participants who spent more time in River's Edge, had visited River's Edge prior to the study, and had seen more exhibits at the Zoo prior to entering River's Edge experienced greater psychological and/or physiological benefits. We conclude that immersive, naturalistic exhibits in zoos can elicit positive changes in physiological and psychological measures of health and well-being and argue for a greater scientific focus on the role of zoos and other green spaces in human health.

The Societal Value of the Modern Zoo: A Commentary on How Zoos Can Positively Impact on Human Populations Locally and Globally

“…There is an increasing body of knowledge demonstrating that visiting immersive, naturalistic exhibits in zoos can also improve human health and well-being, both physiologically and psychologically [105,117]. As mentioned previously, green prescribing is the prescription of nature-based health interventions, and this emerging health strategy provides the zoo with further opportunities to engage with human wellbeing research work.…”

“…Zoos are in an enviable position of providing nature connections, while also directly providing animal interaction. Coolman et al [105] investigated the effects of walking through an immersive zoo exhibit and found that participants demonstrated significant reductions in blood pressure and salivary cortisol, reported feelings of greater happiness, and were less tense. Zoos, therefore, allow rare opportunities for improvements in human wellbeing and in turn this reinforces all other aims of the modern zoo.…”

The Role of Zoos and Aquariums in Contributing to the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework

“…For example, Cracknell et al (2015) found that visitors to a UK aquarium displayed a lower heart rate and higher self-reported change in mood when exposed to fully stocked aquaria, compared to aquaria with lower or no stocking [68]. A study by Coolman et al (2020) established a link between visiting an immersive zoo exhibit and reduced markers of stress (lowered blood pressure and salivary cortisol) [69]. Additionally, trial mental health programmes in zoos have shown early successes [70,71].…”

Expanding the role of the future zoo: Wellbeing should become the fifth aim for modern zoos

“…Much literature, for example Ungar and Theron (2020) and DeRosier et al (2013) , can be found on the need for human populations to build resilience and strategies for coping with the stresses of modern living to promote mental wellbeing. The access to nature and immersion in green space that zoos provide has been shown to have a positive effect on human physical and psychological health ( Coolman et al, 2020 ). Engagement with the zoo’s educational messaging enables pro-environmental human behavior change ( Collins et al, 2020 ).…”