Brookfield Zoo Brookfield Zoo News 2019

If it is okay to ask, why is the Dolphin exhibit in the zoo so barren

It could depend on the time of day. Sometimes the dolphins will have quite a few enrichment items in the main pool for a certain amount of time, other times it could just be the number of dolphins (they will rotate pools and groups several times a day).
 
If it is okay to ask, why is the Dolphin exhibit in the zoo so barren

From what I understand about dolphins and their exhibits, decorations such as rocks, or fake corals don’t have any effect on the animals’ well-being. After a while, they ignore it. In fact, these decorations might deteriorate or break and become a hazard to the dolphins over time. This is why enrichment programs are very important and strictly followed by keepers. Items only are with the dolphins for a short period of time because they lose interest so quickly. If things are left in the exhibit for too long, the item loses value to the animal. Even in the future if the item is used again at a later date. It’s also good to note that what looks barren to us, is actually replicating the open ocean especially in pelagic zones where there are no features as far as you can see.
 
From what I understand about dolphins and their exhibits, decorations such as rocks, or fake corals don’t have any effect on the animals’ well-being. After a while, they ignore it. In fact, these decorations might deteriorate or break and become a hazard to the dolphins over time. This is why enrichment programs are very important and strictly followed by keepers. Items only are with the dolphins for a short period of time because they lose interest so quickly. If things are left in the exhibit for too long, the item loses value to the animal. Even in the future if the item is used again at a later date. It’s also good to note that what looks barren to us, is actually replicating the open ocean especially in pelagic zones where there are no features as far as you can see.
Thanks, I've always wondered why dolphins don't have decorations or enrichment in their exhibit, I was also thinking that it was meant to be the open ocean
 
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