The Effects of Captivity on the Reproduction of Animals

Presenter

Francesco Bruno Catalano

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

C. Gradil, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 1, 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A58, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 3 (A41-A60) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

We have known that ever since animals have been going extinct in mass, zoos and other captive animal facilities are performing captive breeding to help restore wild populations. Zoos and other facilities know when to breed, but outcomes are low. There’s no clarity on whether mating two captive-born animals is better than mating a captive and wild-born or two wild-born animals.  The goal of this study is to determine if using only captive-born animals will lead to better chances of creating offspring. 

To study the effects of captivity on animal reproduction, I will be comparing literature and data from zoos and animal rescue centers.  If there is a positive of breeding two captive-born animals, then it is less likely for the removal of those animals from the wild, thus decreasing the wild population even further. 

The study would show 1 of 4 outcomes.  The first outcome, the use of only captive animals has a higher success rate.  Second, the use of wild and captive animals is better.  Third, the use of only wild animals is better.  Fourth, there is no difference.  Only using captive-born animals can prevent capture myopathy, caused by stress, from taking place.  The impact on animal husbandry and care practices, if the study is a success is that it would lead to new rules on how animals can be bred and to make sure it is done safely.

Keywords

Animal Reproduction, Animal Captivity, Conservation, Animal Care

Research Area

Animal Behaviour

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