Biologie und Haltung von Gürteltieren (Dasypodidae)

7 Summary
Summary
This thesis analyses the current conditions of armadillos in captivity.
The introduction is based on literature, conversations with scientists and
personal observations. It informs about evolution, taxonomy and biology of the
21 known species of armadillos and the different aspects of the care and
maintenance in captivity and contains information about the adequate
enclosure size and its equipment, the nutrition and reproduction of captive
armadillos. Comments on their handling and on suitable blood sampling
techniques, hematological parameters and a compilation of the most common
diseases and their therapies should help the zoo veterinarian when taking
care of armadillos.
This first part is followed by the results of a survey made in zoological gardens
that keep armadillos. The zoos were asked for information about
maintenance, nutrition, reproduction, ethology as well as the diagnosed
pathologies and causes of death of their armadillos. The analysis of this
survey demonstrates that there are serious deficits in the care and
maintenance of armadillos, which have a negative influence on their
reproduction and health and cause stereotypes. Because of the poor data we
can’t put a finger to the factors responsible for the stereotypes and the lack of
reproductive success.
The possible reasons for the appearance of stereotypes in 50% of the zoos
are discussed. A few recommendations for the behavioral enrichment, the
improvement of the maintenance and nutrition and ideas for their presentation
to the visitor are meant to increase the attractiveness of armadillo exhibits.
A comparison of the usual conditions in which armadillos are kept with the
Swiss legislation and the guidelines of the Swiss Society of Animals’
Protection shows clearly that it is not justifiable to keep armadillos under the
current conditions. The animals are held in too small exhibits with poor
distraction, fed inappropriately and suffer from pathologies related to their
maintenance in captivity. Only a few zoos have breeding programs, and those
are rarely successful.
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