Potential Impact of Construction Noise on Selected Zoo Animals

摘要

Simple SummaryAnimals in zoos can adapt to many noises they hear on a regular basis. However, construction noise that is intense or occurs unpredictably may negatively impact the welfare state of some animals and induce a chronic stress response. This study aimed to understand the behavioral response to construction noise of selected species in an urban zoo in order to guide mitigating actions in advance of, and during, a planned construction project. The behavior of elephants, giraffes, emus and alligators was recorded during 90-min exposures to different sound environments including ambient sound, and four construction sound treatments. A non-invasive measure of physiological stress response was also measured in emus. All species appeared to respond to the recorded noise, with giraffes, elephants and emu, demonstrating behavioral changes potentially indicative of agitation or stress. This study has implications for the trade-offs that occur when zoos seek to improve long-term animal welfare through enclosure refurbishment and short-term impacts on animals exposed to construction noise.