Factors facilitating research: a survey of zoo and aquarium professionals

Abstract

The purpose of this survey was to assess the background, training, and perceptions of professionals conducting and coordinating research at North American zoos and aquariums accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and to identify the factors they considered critical to successful scientific programs. We analyzed responses to a 57-item questionnaire from 231 professionals at AZA zoos and aquariums. The majority of those surveyed conducted behavioral research, conducted research only in a captive setting, held curatorial positions, had their salaries supported by their institutions' operating budget, and considered themselves part of a successful scientific program. About 30% of those we surveyed possessed a doctoral research degree in comparison to 55% possessing lesser level degrees-19% with master's, 34% with bachelor's, and 2% with other degrees. Support from the chief executive officer and personnel dedicated to conducting scientific programs were judged as the two most important factors contributing to the successful scientific programs. The information provided in this report may be used to develop and improve both established and newly initiated scientific programs in zoos and aquariums.

Workshop Effectiveness on Content Knowledge of Behavioral Observation Techniques in an Applied Animal Behavior Context

“…Although this perspective has been propagated over the years, collaborative research between zoological facilities and academic institutions has not been as common as envisioned despite clear exceptions (as reviewed by Maple & Perdue, 2013). In general, zoological facilities rely on internal staff to develop and conduct behavioral observations as needed for animal management (Anderson et al, 2010).…”

“…In general, unless staff are encouraged by zoological management or are intrinsically motivated to learn more, most animal care professionals have never or have rarely conducted standardized behavioral observations. In the early 2000s, animal care professionals generally reported having a lack of research experience, knowledge, or expertise in their field (Anderson et al, 2010). Animal care professionals reported wanting to have (1) the support of the zoo director, (2) staff with effort dedicated to conduct scientific programs, (3) well-defined research goals/objectives with a plan, and (4) a strategic plan supported by the facility.…”

Advancing Behavior Analysis in Zoos and Aquariums

“…A series of surveys has consistently demonstrated that zoo and aquarium managers generally welcome outside scientific collaborators (Anderson et al 2008(Anderson et al , 2010Finlay and Maple 1986;Stoinski et al 1998). Although formal scientific programs have developed slowly and cautiously in North America, the San Diego Zoo, Smithsonian National Zoo, and Chicago's Brookfield Zoo were pioneers in building dedicated scientific units committed to evidence-based animal and medical management (Erwin et al 1979;Maple and Bashaw 2010;Maple and Lindburg 2008).…”

Elevating the priority of zoo animal welfare: the chief executive as an agent of reform

“…Increasingly, these experiments are coordinated and result in pooled data and a clear picture of the promise of welfare reforms. Zoo animal welfare has been greatly enhanced by the parallel growth of the field of zoo biology [Anderson, Maple, and Bloomsmith, ; Maple, ; Maple and Bashaw, ]. The Anderson survey was decisive in finding that the most important factor associated with successful research programs was the support of the chief executive.…”