Work

Reimagining Armadillo Husbandry: Applying an Enrichment Framework to Support Ex Situ Conservation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Environmental enrichment (EE) is a vital component of modern zoo husbandry, improving welfare by encouraging natural behaviours and supporting ex situ conservation goals. While EE is widely integrated into the management of many taxa, its welfare benefits remain poorly understood for certain species. The armadillos are examples of such species—underrepresented in research with few targeted EE strategies. Importantly, although olfaction is recognised as their primary sensory modality, methods to promote behaviour linked to olfaction (e.g., exploration and foraging) remain unclear. This review synthesises knowledge on EE for armadillos, using Bloomsmith’s five categories of enrichment and Positive Reinforcement Training (PRT) as a framework. We identify species-typical behaviours to maintain in captivity, consider their ecological relevance in the wild, and explore how tailored EE and PRT can adjust environments. We then evaluate how such approaches can enhance behavioural outcomes, support visitor engagement, and promote welfare critical for in situ and ex situ conservation. Furthermore, we highlight EE’s role in safeguarding adaptive traits for population sustainability and argue that integrating EE and PRT into a broader One Plan Approach provides a pathway for aligning ex situ management with wild ecology. Finally, we identify key gaps, emphasising multi-institutional collaboration, standardised metrics, and long-term research to guide evidence-based practices for armadillos.

Source: Diversity

DOI: 10.3390/d17100730

Authors: Robert Kelly, Paul Rose

Institutions: University of Exeter, Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust

Language: English

Topic: Animal Behavior and Welfare Studies

Subfield: Small Animals

Field: Veterinary

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,534