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What's a Polar Bear Doing in the Tropics? - Animal Concerns ...

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animal is div<strong>in</strong>g. They also eat carrion, such as dead whales, washed ashoreon Arctic coastl<strong>in</strong>es. 22Although polar bears are not migratory animals, <strong>the</strong>ir seasonal movements <strong>in</strong>some areas may be considerable. <strong>Polar</strong> bears on <strong>the</strong> pelagic drift ice <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>Barents Sea undertake extensive annual migrations follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> seasonalchanges <strong>in</strong> sea ice, yield<strong>in</strong>g annual range sizes of 250,000 squarekilometres. 23 One marked polar bear was found to have crossed <strong>the</strong> Arctic,cover<strong>in</strong>g 3,200 kilometres <strong>in</strong> one year. 22 In one day, polar bears can traveleighty kilometres or more. 24 In an average lifetime, a polar bear maytraverse 260,000 square kilometres. 22<strong>Polar</strong> bears are good swimmers and are able to swim 100 to 120 kilometres,and maybe even far<strong>the</strong>r, without land<strong>in</strong>g. 25 Their webbed paws propel <strong>the</strong>mthrough <strong>the</strong> water at speeds of up to six and a half kilometres per hour.While div<strong>in</strong>g, polar bears can rema<strong>in</strong> underwater for up to two m<strong>in</strong>utes. 25Scientists logged one non-stop swim by a polar bear of 200 miles. 20<strong>Polar</strong> bears are generally solitary <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild, although large congregationsdo occur <strong>in</strong> certa<strong>in</strong> areas, usually at significant sources of food, at certa<strong>in</strong>times of <strong>the</strong> year. 25What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?10www.acres.org.sg


1.4 Welfare of wild animals <strong>in</strong> captivityCaptive polar bears at a Japanese zooThe captive environment presents a vastly different environment to whatanimals have been adapted to. Compared to <strong>the</strong> dynamic and complexnature of <strong>the</strong> natural environment, <strong>the</strong> captive one is frequently morestatic. Physical factors such as temperature, humidity, structural features,and <strong>the</strong> type, quantity, and availability of food are typically morepredictable <strong>in</strong> a captive environment. 26 As a result of this predictability,captive environments frequently offer less stimulation and opportunity forchoice than natural environments. 26Like <strong>the</strong>ir counterparts <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild, captive animals need to engage <strong>in</strong> avariety of <strong>in</strong>st<strong>in</strong>ctive behaviours such as seek<strong>in</strong>g shelter, nest sites, matesand food resources, avoid<strong>in</strong>g predators and parasites, defend<strong>in</strong>g territories,and explor<strong>in</strong>g new spaces. 27 However, most captives are, to a large degree,restricted or prevented from engag<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>se behaviours. 27The behaviour of wild animals <strong>in</strong> captivity may also be under humancontrol, 28 <strong>in</strong> contrast to <strong>the</strong> wild, where decisions are made based on <strong>the</strong>What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?11www.acres.org.sg


<strong>in</strong>dividual’s own choices. This ability of <strong>the</strong> animal to have some controlover its environment appears to be crucial <strong>in</strong> stress reduction and <strong>the</strong>reforereduce <strong>the</strong> risk of associated health problems. 29<strong>Bear</strong>s <strong>in</strong> captivity are highlysusceptible to <strong>the</strong> developmentof abnormal behaviours, <strong>in</strong>particular stereotypies 30,31,32and excessive <strong>in</strong>activity. 33Typical stereotypies behavioursdisplayed by bears <strong>in</strong>cludepac<strong>in</strong>g, repetitive swimm<strong>in</strong>g,weav<strong>in</strong>g, head-sway<strong>in</strong>g andoral forms such as tongueflick<strong>in</strong>gand teeth grat<strong>in</strong>g. 30Suboptimal and restrictive captiveconditions often result <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> developmentof stereotypies, 34 which typically arisewhen an animal’s environment lacksappropriate stimulation. 35 Stereotypies arebehaviour patterns that are <strong>in</strong>variant <strong>in</strong>style, performed repetitively, and appearto have no function. They are of concernbecause <strong>the</strong>y may <strong>in</strong>dicate poor welfare,and are sometimes detrimental tohealth. 30Suboptimal conditions can also result <strong>in</strong> frustration and <strong>in</strong>creased levels ofstress, lead<strong>in</strong>g to development of aberrant behaviours such ashyperaggression, hypersexuality, lethargy and o<strong>the</strong>r problematicconditions. 27 Captive conditions also decrease <strong>the</strong> level of <strong>the</strong> animals’general reactivity and markedly change <strong>the</strong>ir behaviour. 13Most progressive zoos now recognize that conf<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g animals <strong>in</strong> bor<strong>in</strong>g,behaviourally impoverished enclosures that fail to satisfy <strong>the</strong>ir speciesspecificneeds is no longer acceptable. 27Each animal species has evolved adaptations to survive <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir ownparticular natural environment. It is thus extremely important that zoodesigners, zoo management and animal care staff allow for a free expressionand utilization of <strong>the</strong>se adaptations <strong>in</strong> captivity. 27 Progressive enrichmentstrategies should be implemented to encourage animals to take control of<strong>the</strong>ir own lives by provid<strong>in</strong>g an environment that allows <strong>the</strong>m choice andcontrol.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?12www.acres.org.sg


1.5 Welfare concerns for polar bears <strong>in</strong> captivity:International scientific studies<strong>Polar</strong> bears are poor candidates for captivity, even <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> best ofcircumstances. Captive polar bears are notorious for <strong>the</strong>ir tendency toexhibit repetitious stereotypic behaviours. These behaviours <strong>in</strong>clude headsw<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g,pac<strong>in</strong>g, tongue-flick<strong>in</strong>g, and circular or to-and-fro patterns ofswimm<strong>in</strong>g. 36 O<strong>the</strong>r abnormal behaviours that have been described <strong>in</strong>cludehead twist<strong>in</strong>g and head weav<strong>in</strong>g. <strong>Polar</strong> bears are particularly well known forpac<strong>in</strong>g 13 and probably <strong>the</strong> most universal movement observed <strong>in</strong> almost anyzoo <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> world by polar bears is <strong>the</strong> expression of “head-body turns”.Accord<strong>in</strong>g to WSPA, this movement is often seen as part of pac<strong>in</strong>gstereotypies, but may also be expressed as part of swimm<strong>in</strong>g stereotypies. 21.5.1 British zoos studiesStudies undertaken at British Zoos <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> 1980s and 1990s documented andexam<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> detail <strong>the</strong> abnormal and stereotypic behaviours displayed by<strong>the</strong> polar bears <strong>the</strong>re. 36,37,38In one survey carried out <strong>in</strong> British zoos between 1989 and 1991, all polarbears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>se zoos showed stereotyped behaviours at one time or ano<strong>the</strong>r,with <strong>the</strong> most common be<strong>in</strong>g that of pac<strong>in</strong>g to-and-fro. 36 In this survey, zoopolar bears were recorded spend<strong>in</strong>g an average of thirty-three per cent of<strong>the</strong>ir day engaged <strong>in</strong> stereotyped behaviours. One polar bear spent sixty percent of its time engaged <strong>in</strong> stereotyped behaviour. 36 In a separate study,abnormal behaviour was seen to be displayed by all polar bears <strong>in</strong> fiveBritish zoos. 38With captive polar bears, stereotypic behaviour is particularly resistant tochange. 36 It is not only wild caught polar bears that are susceptible todevelop<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>se abnormal behaviours <strong>in</strong> captivity. Captive born <strong>in</strong>dividualsappear just as prone to development of abnormal behaviours, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>gstereotypic behaviours. 38Captive polar bears are also prone to o<strong>the</strong>r forms of abnormal behaviour.<strong>Polar</strong> bears have been recorded display<strong>in</strong>g pronounced <strong>in</strong>activity or apathy,for example sitt<strong>in</strong>g “trance-like” <strong>in</strong> one squatt<strong>in</strong>g position for hours at atime, star<strong>in</strong>g at a wall. 38 It has been suggested that <strong>the</strong> orig<strong>in</strong>al cause of thispo<strong>in</strong>tless squatt<strong>in</strong>g behaviour was boredom, this boredom <strong>the</strong>n led to a formof ennui, <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong> bear became mentally moribund. 38 It has long beenrecognised that cerebral degeneration is a common feature amongstopportunist species kept <strong>in</strong> captivity. 38 Apathy <strong>in</strong> captive animals has beenrecorded by numerous scientists <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g Hediger (1950, 1955), 39,40 Meyer-Holzapfel (1968) 41 and Morris (1964) 42 .What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?13www.acres.org.sg


Follow<strong>in</strong>g his <strong>in</strong>vestigations <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> welfare of captive polar bears, StefanOmrod (1992) concluded “It is self-evident that polar bears have extremedifficulty <strong>in</strong> adjust<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> conditions of captivity. This is especially clearwhen one exam<strong>in</strong>es <strong>the</strong> widespread <strong>in</strong>cidence of aberrant behaviour.” “Thewelfare of polar bears is not good. I believe that many suffered and may stillbe suffer<strong>in</strong>g, to some degree, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> process of adapt<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong>ir captiveenvironment”. 38What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?14www.acres.org.sg


1.5.2 Oxford University reportA 2003 report by researchers Dr. Georgia Mason and Dr. Ros Clubb at OxfordUniversity strongly <strong>in</strong>dicated that a particular lifestyle <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild confersvulnerability to welfare problems <strong>in</strong> captivity. 1 It appeared that home-rangesize and <strong>the</strong> daily distance travelled was <strong>the</strong> predict<strong>in</strong>g factor <strong>in</strong> how well aspecies adapts to captivity. They suggested that problems <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g poorhealth and a tendency to pace are directly related to <strong>the</strong> size of <strong>the</strong> animal'shome range <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild. These problems were suggested to stem fromconstra<strong>in</strong>ts imposed on <strong>the</strong>ir natural behaviour. 1One of <strong>the</strong>ir key f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>gs was that among <strong>the</strong> carnivores, naturally widerang<strong>in</strong>gspecies show <strong>the</strong> most evidence of stress and/or psychologicaldysfunction <strong>in</strong> captivity. 1 The direct relationship of home range size toabnormal behaviour and high <strong>in</strong>fant mortality <strong>in</strong> captivity existed<strong>in</strong>dependent of factors like <strong>the</strong> size and design of <strong>the</strong> enclosure and feed<strong>in</strong>gschedules. 1It is unclear why natural home-range size is so important. "It could be thatsome carnivores roam because <strong>the</strong>y are very sensitive to chang<strong>in</strong>g preydensities, or some species f<strong>in</strong>d roam<strong>in</strong>g pleasurable, so <strong>the</strong>y roam," Dr.Mason said. "They might be designed <strong>in</strong> such a way that roam<strong>in</strong>g makes <strong>the</strong>ircentral nervous system develop properly". 43The typical zoo enclosure for a polar bear is one-millionth <strong>the</strong> size of itshome range <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild, which can reach 31,000 square miles, <strong>the</strong>authors said. 1 Some captive polar bears spend twenty five per cent of <strong>the</strong>irday <strong>in</strong> what scientists call stereotypic pac<strong>in</strong>g, and <strong>in</strong>fant mortality forcaptive animals is around sixty five per cent. 1The researchers based <strong>the</strong>ir f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>gs on an analysis of some 1,200 journalarticles cover<strong>in</strong>g four decades of observations of animals <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild and at500 zoos worldwide. 43The study revealed those species that are <strong>in</strong>herently likely to fare badly <strong>in</strong>zoos and o<strong>the</strong>r establishments. One of <strong>the</strong> conclusions of <strong>the</strong> report wasthat polar bears and o<strong>the</strong>r wide-rang<strong>in</strong>g carnivores do so poorly <strong>in</strong>captivity that zoos should ei<strong>the</strong>r drastically improve <strong>the</strong>ir conditions orstop keep<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>m altoge<strong>the</strong>r. As stated <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> report: “our f<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>gs<strong>in</strong>dicate that <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of naturally wide-rang<strong>in</strong>g carnivores shouldei<strong>the</strong>r be fundamentally improved or phased out”. 1What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?15www.acres.org.sg


What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?16www.acres.org.sg


CHAPTER 2LEGISLATION: INTERNATIONAL AND LOCALThis chapter provides a list of legislation which S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo may fail toadhere to. Fur<strong>the</strong>r details are provided <strong>in</strong> Chapter 5.2.1 S<strong>in</strong>gapore legislation 5S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo is licensed by <strong>the</strong> Agri-Food and Veter<strong>in</strong>ary Authority (AVA)under <strong>the</strong> <strong>Animal</strong> and Birds (Pet Shop and Exhibition) Rules 2004: Permanent<strong>Animal</strong> Exhibitions. AVA issues a permanent animal exhibition license to <strong>the</strong>zoo.Under this license, S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo has to comply with <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>gconditions which are relevant to <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gaporeZoo. This report provides clear evidence that S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo probablydoes not comply with <strong>the</strong> conditions with regard to <strong>the</strong>ir captive polarbears.Under <strong>the</strong> <strong>Animal</strong> and Birds (Pet Shop and Exhibition) Rules 2004, <strong>the</strong>Director-General may compound <strong>the</strong> relevant offence(s) committed by<strong>the</strong> licensee or revoke or suspend <strong>the</strong> license if <strong>the</strong> operator contravenesor fails to comply with any condition(s) of this license.Permanent <strong>Animal</strong> ExhibitionsPr<strong>in</strong>ciples of Manag<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> <strong>Animal</strong>s5 The licensee must be able to show that provision has been made to meetall requirements for <strong>the</strong> welfare of all animals <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> collection. Theanimal’s physical, physiological and psychological needs must be considered<strong>in</strong> order to assess whe<strong>the</strong>r or not <strong>the</strong> welfare needs of a particular animal orgroup of animals are met. Assessment of <strong>the</strong>se needs must be based on anunderstand<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong> species <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> context of both its natural history andcaptive husbandry.6 The licensee should keep <strong>the</strong> animals <strong>in</strong> an environment that is conduciveto <strong>the</strong>ir well-be<strong>in</strong>g, to allow <strong>the</strong>m to display <strong>the</strong>ir natural range of activitiesand behaviours.7 The animals must not be subjected to any situation (such as overcrowd<strong>in</strong>g,conflict situations, etc) which could result <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir suffer<strong>in</strong>g from chronicstress. Likewise, <strong>the</strong> animals must not be subjected to excessive publicattention such as patt<strong>in</strong>g, rid<strong>in</strong>g, etc.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?17www.acres.org.sg


Accommodation20 All animal accommodation must provide <strong>the</strong> basic physical andpsychological needs of <strong>the</strong> species.21 There must be sufficient space available for <strong>the</strong> animal to exercise andrest as well as afford protection from ra<strong>in</strong>, sun and strong w<strong>in</strong>ds.22 Accommodation must be built to an acceptable design and <strong>the</strong> build<strong>in</strong>gmaterials durable.24 The hold<strong>in</strong>g area is for short-term hold<strong>in</strong>g of animals. It must allow <strong>the</strong>animal to stand, sit and lie comfortably.25 The licensee must provide evidence that <strong>the</strong> animal accommodation isdesigned to meet or exceed <strong>the</strong> biological requirements of <strong>the</strong> species.Under <strong>the</strong> <strong>Animal</strong>s and Birds Act, <strong>the</strong>re are also certa<strong>in</strong> guidel<strong>in</strong>es relat<strong>in</strong>g toperform<strong>in</strong>g animals.<strong>Animal</strong> PerformancesConditions2 The animals must not be forced to perform acts considered unnatural for<strong>the</strong> animal.2.2 Canadian legislationThe Wild Life Act of <strong>the</strong> Prov<strong>in</strong>ce of Newfoundland and Labrador <strong>in</strong>cludesspecific requirements for <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of polar bears, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g m<strong>in</strong>imumpermissible enclosure size, den requirements, exercis<strong>in</strong>g equipmentrequirements and pool requirements. 44The Prov<strong>in</strong>ce of Manitoba has a robust legislative and policy framework <strong>in</strong>place for <strong>the</strong> protection of polar bears. Recognis<strong>in</strong>g polar bears as a specieswith special requirements, a set of specific requirements <strong>in</strong> relation to <strong>the</strong>keep<strong>in</strong>g of polar bears <strong>in</strong> captivity was <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> The <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> ProtectionAct, which was made law by <strong>the</strong> Government of Manitoba, Canada <strong>in</strong> 2003. 11These guidel<strong>in</strong>es outl<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong> m<strong>in</strong>imum standards of care and husbandry thatmust be followed by those <strong>in</strong>stitutions hous<strong>in</strong>g polar bears. These strictguidel<strong>in</strong>es must also be met by any zoos wish<strong>in</strong>g to acquire a polar bear fromManitoba, which is <strong>the</strong> prov<strong>in</strong>ce that is <strong>the</strong> primary source of orphan polarbears.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?18www.acres.org.sg


CHAPTER 3WELFARE CONCERNS FOR POLAR BEARS IN ATROPICAL CLIMATE3.1 Detailed behavioural study: Effects of heat stress3.1.1 MethodsThe polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo have no substrates <strong>in</strong> which to dig daybeds, have no snow to lie <strong>in</strong>, have no ice-cold water to plunge <strong>in</strong> and haveno control over <strong>the</strong>ir offered diet. Therefore, <strong>the</strong> only ways <strong>the</strong>y canattempt to cool down when outdoors is by pant<strong>in</strong>g, by adopt<strong>in</strong>g a posture <strong>in</strong>which some heat will be dissipated from <strong>the</strong>ir body (i.e. ly<strong>in</strong>g spread-eagledon <strong>the</strong> ground with thighs spread wide) and seek<strong>in</strong>g out whatever shade isavailable.This study documents <strong>the</strong> pant<strong>in</strong>g and ly<strong>in</strong>g flat behaviours. A prelim<strong>in</strong>arystudy was conducted <strong>in</strong> August 2005. The prelim<strong>in</strong>ary study provided anopportunity for <strong>the</strong> observers to familiarise <strong>the</strong>mselves with <strong>the</strong> behaviouralrepertoire of <strong>the</strong> animals, as well as ref<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> observation protocol.S<strong>in</strong>ce data on behavioural states ra<strong>the</strong>r than events were collected and <strong>the</strong>subjects were sampled us<strong>in</strong>g a few behavioural categories, <strong>the</strong> polar bearswere observed <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir enclosures us<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>stantaneous and scan animalsampl<strong>in</strong>g. 45 Scans were made every two m<strong>in</strong>utes to determ<strong>in</strong>e which of <strong>the</strong>behaviour categories (def<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> Table 3.1 and 3.2) each <strong>in</strong>dividual wasengaged <strong>in</strong>. The sampl<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>terval of two m<strong>in</strong>utes was chosen after <strong>the</strong>prelim<strong>in</strong>ary study, s<strong>in</strong>ce it gave <strong>the</strong> closest account of <strong>the</strong>ir behaviour.Ad libitum sampl<strong>in</strong>g was also used to record novel or <strong>in</strong>trigu<strong>in</strong>g behavioursand actions.Follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> prelim<strong>in</strong>ary study, observations were made from Septemberuntil December 2005 between <strong>the</strong> hours of approximately 1000 and 1730 fora total of seven days. Observations were made for 3,150 m<strong>in</strong>utes with atotal of 1,575 sample po<strong>in</strong>ts.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?19www.acres.org.sg


Table 3.1 Categories of behaviours used for study on pant<strong>in</strong>gActivities Def<strong>in</strong>itionPant<strong>in</strong>g Breath<strong>in</strong>g with rapid, shallow breaths. Mouth is open, tonguemay hang out of mouthO<strong>the</strong>rs Any behaviour o<strong>the</strong>r than pant<strong>in</strong>g or unable to viewbehaviour clearlyTable 3.2 Categories of behaviours used for study on ly<strong>in</strong>g flatActivities Def<strong>in</strong>itionLy<strong>in</strong>g flat Ly<strong>in</strong>g on belly with armpits and <strong>in</strong>ner thighs <strong>in</strong> contact with<strong>the</strong> floorO<strong>the</strong>rs Any behaviour o<strong>the</strong>r than ly<strong>in</strong>g flat on <strong>the</strong> floor or unable toview behaviour clearlyWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?20www.acres.org.sg


3.1.2 ResultsTABLE 3.3 Pant<strong>in</strong>g behaviour profile of InukaActivities No. of sample po<strong>in</strong>ts PercentagePant<strong>in</strong>g 567 36.0O<strong>the</strong>rs 1008 64.036%Pant<strong>in</strong>gO<strong>the</strong>rs64%Percentage of occurrence of pant<strong>in</strong>g behaviours of Inuka.TABLE 3.4 Pant<strong>in</strong>g behaviour profile of ShebaActivities No. of sample po<strong>in</strong>ts PercentagePant<strong>in</strong>g 610 38.7O<strong>the</strong>rs 965 61.3Pant<strong>in</strong>gO<strong>the</strong>rs39%61%Percentage of occurrence of pant<strong>in</strong>g behaviours of Sheba.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?21www.acres.org.sg


TABLE 3.5 Ly<strong>in</strong>g flat behaviour profile of InukaActivities No. of sample po<strong>in</strong>ts PercentageLy<strong>in</strong>g flat 372 23.6O<strong>the</strong>rs 1203 76.424%Ly<strong>in</strong>g flatO<strong>the</strong>rs76%Percentage of occurrence of ly<strong>in</strong>g flat behaviours of Inuka.TABLE 3.6 Ly<strong>in</strong>g flat behaviour profile of ShebaActivities No. of sample po<strong>in</strong>ts PercentagePant<strong>in</strong>g 226 14.3O<strong>the</strong>rs 1349 85.714%Ly<strong>in</strong>g flatO<strong>the</strong>rs86%Percentage of occurrence of ly<strong>in</strong>g flat behaviours of Sheba.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?22www.acres.org.sg


3.2 Discussion of resultsSheba pant<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> heat.The fact that <strong>the</strong> entire outdoor enclosure is open-air, i.e. <strong>the</strong> temperatureis not regulated <strong>in</strong> a tropical climate, clearly poses a problem for <strong>the</strong> polarbears which are adapted to life <strong>in</strong> extremely cold environments. The polarbears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo suffer from exposure to extreme heat on a dailybasis. Physical stimuli such as heat and cold are known to be stressful toanimals. 46Both Inuka and Sheba showed clear signs that <strong>the</strong>y are too hot. Inuka andSheba spent 36.0 per cent and 38.7 per cent of <strong>the</strong> time pant<strong>in</strong>grespectively. Inuka and Sheba also spent 23.6 per cent and 14.3 per cent of<strong>the</strong> time ly<strong>in</strong>g flat respectively.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?23www.acres.org.sg


3.2.1 Adaptation to Arctic cold<strong>Polar</strong> bears are highly adapted to life <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Arctic with <strong>the</strong>ir fur, tough hideand blubber layer provid<strong>in</strong>g excellent <strong>in</strong>sulation aga<strong>in</strong>st <strong>the</strong> cold. 19 <strong>Polar</strong>bears are so well <strong>in</strong>sulated that <strong>the</strong>y give off no detectable heat. 20Physiological adaptationsFur and sk<strong>in</strong>In response to <strong>the</strong> cold environment<strong>the</strong>y live <strong>in</strong>, a polar bear’s coatcovers <strong>the</strong> entire body except for<strong>the</strong> footpads and <strong>the</strong> nose. 47 Thesoles of <strong>the</strong>ir paws are denselycovered with hair so that only <strong>the</strong>irtoe pads and sole calluses arenaked. 25 <strong>Polar</strong> bear fur is thick (640hairs/0.39 square <strong>in</strong>ch) with tuftedguard hairs. 48 They have two layersof fur which serves as an additionalmeans of protection aga<strong>in</strong>st <strong>the</strong>cold. The hollow, oily guard hairsare two to six <strong>in</strong>ches long andprovide heat preservation while onland. 48 The fact that <strong>the</strong>se guardhairs are hollow allows <strong>the</strong>m to workas efficient solar collectors. 49 Thelong, clear guard hairs directultraviolet radiation towards <strong>the</strong>sk<strong>in</strong>, which is black (a colour idealfor absorb<strong>in</strong>g radiant heat), to soakup <strong>the</strong> energy of <strong>the</strong> sun moreefficiently. 47 The guard hairs change95% of <strong>the</strong> sun’s rays to heat. 48BlubberA thick layer of fat under <strong>the</strong> sk<strong>in</strong>covers nearly all of a polar bear’sbody, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g its head and <strong>the</strong>undersides of its paws. The blubberClimate experienced by wild bearsMost polar bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> high Arcticlive permanently on <strong>the</strong> frozen ArcticOcean, follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> edges of <strong>the</strong> seaice as it slowly extends southward. 22Dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> w<strong>in</strong>ter months <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>Arctic, polar bears may encountertemperatures of -57°C 22 whilst <strong>the</strong>w<strong>in</strong>d chill factor may even causetemperatures to drop as low as-70°C 50 .Wild polar bears, once <strong>the</strong>y areadults, only rarely seek refuge from<strong>the</strong>se sub zero conditions (by build<strong>in</strong>gdens) due to <strong>the</strong>ir highly effectiveadaptations to life <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> extremecold. Sleep<strong>in</strong>g outside dur<strong>in</strong>g Arcticgales, snow coats <strong>the</strong>ir fur and driftsover <strong>the</strong>ir bodies, but <strong>the</strong>ir thickcoats and layers of fat protect <strong>the</strong>mfrom cold. 22The polar bears of Hudson Bay <strong>in</strong>Canada are <strong>the</strong> sou<strong>the</strong>rnmostpopulation of polar bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> worldand are forced to spend more time onland than <strong>the</strong>ir relatives <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> HighArctic. Every year as <strong>the</strong> ice melts <strong>in</strong>Hudson Bay, <strong>the</strong> entire population isforced to spend about four months onland, from July until November. 25 Thisis an unusual and stressful situationfor <strong>the</strong>m. 49layer of a polar bear can be up to eleven centimetres thick. 19 On <strong>the</strong> bear’srump, this layer of fat may be up to twelve centimetres thick. <strong>Polar</strong> bearsalso have layers of fat up to four centimetres thick between <strong>the</strong>ir muscles,and particularly plump <strong>in</strong>dividuals may even have fat deposits up to threecentimetres thick around <strong>the</strong>ir <strong>in</strong>ternal organs. 25 As <strong>the</strong> fat is storedsubcutaneously, it serves as an excellent <strong>in</strong>sulator. 47What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?24www.acres.org.sg


Ears and tailsThe ears and tails of polar bears are shorter than those of o<strong>the</strong>r bears <strong>in</strong>order to avoid heat loss. 47What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?25www.acres.org.sg


3.2.2 Reasons for pant<strong>in</strong>g and ly<strong>in</strong>g flatThere is no doubt that polar bears are built to ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir body heat.They do not have any physiological or morphological means of stay<strong>in</strong>g cooland <strong>the</strong>refore have to rely on behaviour to do so. 10In tropical climates, conditions of high temperature and humidity can beproblematic for all animals. Many animals, particularly birds and mammals,Inuka ly<strong>in</strong>g flat to dissipate heat from his body.have <strong>the</strong> ability to elevate <strong>in</strong>ternal heat production when <strong>the</strong>y get cold.However, <strong>the</strong>y have greater difficulty cool<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>mselves down when <strong>the</strong>yget hot because <strong>the</strong>y can only reduce heat production to a level compatiblewith cont<strong>in</strong>uation of <strong>the</strong>ir basic metabolic processes.This may not be sufficient to deal with conditions of high temperature, socaptive animals must be given <strong>the</strong> opportunity to ‘<strong>the</strong>rmoregulate’ bymov<strong>in</strong>g to cooler, more shady areas such as forest cover, burrows, rockcavities or pools.For polar bears, <strong>the</strong> negative aspect of be<strong>in</strong>g so well <strong>in</strong>sulated is that <strong>the</strong>yoverheat quickly, even <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Arctic. 19 Any temperature above freez<strong>in</strong>g iswarm to a polar bear; at 21.1°C polar bears can become severely heatstressed.20What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?26www.acres.org.sg


As <strong>the</strong>ir fat is stored subcutaneously, it serves as an excellent <strong>in</strong>sulator. As<strong>in</strong>sulators work both ways, while it blocks <strong>the</strong> cold from penetrat<strong>in</strong>g, fatalso <strong>in</strong>hibits heat from dissipat<strong>in</strong>g. Heat stress is <strong>the</strong>refore a problem polarbears face. 47The fact that polar bears are carnivorous adds to <strong>the</strong>ir problem ofoverheat<strong>in</strong>g. Eat<strong>in</strong>g meat and fat generates heat energy, <strong>the</strong>refore <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>wild those polar bears that need to withstand periods of relative heatchoose to fast or become vegetarian; <strong>the</strong> majority choose to fast. 10In this study, both Sheba and Inuka spent a significant amount of timetry<strong>in</strong>g to cool down (pant<strong>in</strong>g and ly<strong>in</strong>g flat).As <strong>the</strong>y do not have sweat glands, bears must cool <strong>the</strong>mselves throughseveral unique methods, shared by dogs. 48One way that polar bears may dissipate heat is through slobber<strong>in</strong>g tongues,pant<strong>in</strong>g like a dog. 48 Pant<strong>in</strong>g is rapid, shallow respirations characterised byopen-mou<strong>the</strong>d breath<strong>in</strong>g, often accompanied by a protrusion of <strong>the</strong> tongue.When an animal pants it provides <strong>in</strong>creased air flow over moist surfaces <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> upper respiratory tract through rapid, shallow breath<strong>in</strong>g. The <strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong>air flow causes an <strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong> evaporation from <strong>the</strong> upper respiratory tract.This evaporative cool<strong>in</strong>g helps to regulate temperature.<strong>Polar</strong> bears will adopt different postures when sleep<strong>in</strong>g or ly<strong>in</strong>g depend<strong>in</strong>gon whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong>y want to get rid of heat or conserve it. 19 The hot spots ofbears are <strong>the</strong> muscles, nose, ears, footpads and particularly <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>side of <strong>the</strong>thighs and “armpits”. <strong>Polar</strong> bears will lie spread-eagled <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir efforts todissipate heat; <strong>the</strong>ir gro<strong>in</strong>s and armpits are <strong>the</strong> only spots on <strong>the</strong> body thathave little fur and no fat. 47 They will lie with <strong>the</strong>ir legs (thighs) spread wideto lose heat, often sprawled on snowfields or patches of snow. 48What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?27www.acres.org.sg


3.2.3 Heat stress experienced <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore climateAir-con shelters are provided by S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo for visitors to cool offfrom <strong>the</strong> extreme heat.The climate of S<strong>in</strong>gapore is characterised by uniform temperature, highhumidity and abundant ra<strong>in</strong>fall. The average annual temperature is27.0°C. 51 In extreme cases, <strong>the</strong> temperature can reach a maximum of35.8°C. 51For a species that becomes severely heatstressed at 21.1°C, 20 <strong>the</strong>re are obviouslygo<strong>in</strong>g to be welfare concerns <strong>in</strong>subject<strong>in</strong>g polar bears to average dailytemperatures of 27.0°C. The results ofthis study clearly prove this po<strong>in</strong>t.S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo obviously recognises <strong>the</strong>fact that climate <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore is hot andit is uncomfortable to be outdoors <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> heat as it offers air-conditionedrestaurants and six spacious airconditionedshelters purely for visitorsto cool off as <strong>the</strong>y walk around <strong>the</strong> zoo.In 2005 <strong>the</strong>re was much publicdebate <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore over <strong>the</strong>keep<strong>in</strong>g of Arctic dogs <strong>in</strong> atropical country follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>death of an Alaskan Malamutwho died after be<strong>in</strong>g left out <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> sun and deprived of waterby its owner. Former zoo chiefBernard Harrison agreed thatkeep<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> dogs here is“crazy”. “They are simply notdesigned for this k<strong>in</strong>d ofwea<strong>the</strong>r” he said. 6What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?28www.acres.org.sg


The fact that polar bearsare physiologicallyunsuited to a tropicalclimate will cause <strong>the</strong>mconsiderable physicaldiscomfort and suffer<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong> hot conditions. Them<strong>in</strong>imumdailytemperature given forS<strong>in</strong>gapore is 23.0°C –approximately twodegrees higher than <strong>the</strong>21.1°C temperature atwhich <strong>the</strong> bears canbecome “severely heatstressed”. 20The polar bears atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo are housed<strong>in</strong> an open air enclosureand are only providedThe polar bears have m<strong>in</strong>imal shelter from<strong>the</strong> sun.with limited shelter from <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tense sun. This comes from a tarpaul<strong>in</strong> tiedhigh above <strong>the</strong> enclosure and a small shaded area under <strong>the</strong> bouldersmeasur<strong>in</strong>g just a few metres squared. The limited shaded area provided by<strong>the</strong> concrete boulders does not appear large enough to comfortablyaccommodate both bears ly<strong>in</strong>g down.The polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo are fed meat on a daily basis and eat<strong>in</strong>gmeat <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> equatorial heat will generate more heat 10 Although <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wildpolar bears can choose to avoid eat<strong>in</strong>g meat if <strong>the</strong>y are heat stressed, <strong>in</strong>captivity <strong>the</strong>y may not have such a choice s<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong>y do not decide what<strong>the</strong>y are fed.In <strong>the</strong> report submitted by Acres to <strong>the</strong> zoo <strong>in</strong> 2004, it was recommendedthat, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> short term, <strong>the</strong> enclosure should be air-conditioned as soon aspossible. 18 However, this recommendation has not been implemented.Acres also recommended <strong>the</strong> provision of additional shade by shade cloth ortrees with wider canopies planted outside <strong>the</strong> enclosure. 18 Thisrecommendation has been partially implemented with a new tarpaul<strong>in</strong>erected. Acres fur<strong>the</strong>r recommended that, until air-condition<strong>in</strong>g could be<strong>in</strong>stalled, large fans could be used and some additional relief could beprovided through <strong>the</strong> use of misters spray<strong>in</strong>g a f<strong>in</strong>e mist <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> enclosure. 18This advice was acted upon <strong>in</strong> early 2006; five fans are now located high upon <strong>the</strong> walls surround<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> front of <strong>the</strong> pool. These fans spray a mist overWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?29www.acres.org.sg


<strong>the</strong> pool area. However, <strong>the</strong>effectiveness of <strong>the</strong>se fans isquestionable. They are relativelysmall and <strong>the</strong> mist only seems toeffectively reach <strong>the</strong> pool area. Thefans were recommended only toprovide short-term relief and aircondition<strong>in</strong>gshould still be<strong>in</strong>stalled. 18While air-conditioned dens <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>back area of <strong>the</strong> enclosure areprovided to <strong>the</strong> polar bears, <strong>the</strong> densare <strong>in</strong>credibly small. 10If <strong>the</strong> male bear lies down sprawledon his belly on <strong>the</strong> floor of his den,he will fill <strong>the</strong> whole space. 10 If hechooses to enter <strong>the</strong> air-conditioneddens, he will <strong>the</strong>refore be conf<strong>in</strong>edto an extremely small area. If herema<strong>in</strong>s <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> open-air enclosure, hewill suffer from heat stress.Therefore, ei<strong>the</strong>r way, he will beuncomfortable.Methods by which polar bears cancool down but not provided for atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo<strong>Polar</strong> bears can wea<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> heat bydigg<strong>in</strong>g deep day beds <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> soiluntil <strong>the</strong>y reach <strong>the</strong> permafrost.These day beds are often shaded bylong grasses and hummocky terra<strong>in</strong>. 10They may also take mud and dustbaths to cool down. 48Wild polar bears may jump <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong>cold Arctic Ocean to cool off ifoverheat<strong>in</strong>g. 20Wild polar bears will also balanceenergy expenditure and food <strong>in</strong>taketo regulate <strong>the</strong>ir bodytemperature. 48However, <strong>the</strong> polar bears atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo cannot dig day beds,jump <strong>in</strong>to ice cold waters nor choose<strong>the</strong> food <strong>the</strong>y eat.A pool is provided for <strong>the</strong> bears, however, <strong>the</strong> temperature of <strong>the</strong> water isnot cold enough (17 degrees Celsius) for <strong>the</strong>se Arctic animals (sub-zerotemperatures). Sea water <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Arctic seas rema<strong>in</strong>s at around -20°C all yearround. 50Sheba was born <strong>in</strong> a German zoo and came to S<strong>in</strong>gapore as a cub and Inukawas born <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore, <strong>the</strong>refore it is true that nei<strong>the</strong>r bear has experiencednatural Arctic conditions. However, this does not mean that <strong>the</strong> bearshave become physically ‘adapted’ to <strong>the</strong> climate <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore. They stillpossess all <strong>the</strong> physiological adaptations to life <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Arctic.<strong>Polar</strong> bears cannot simply “adapt” to life <strong>in</strong> an unnatural climate <strong>in</strong> a shortspace of time (although <strong>the</strong>y can modify <strong>the</strong>ir behaviour). Adaptation isdef<strong>in</strong>ed as an “evolutionary process <strong>in</strong>volv<strong>in</strong>g genetic change by which apopulation becomes fitted to its prevail<strong>in</strong>g environment”. 52 Evolutionaryprocesses, by def<strong>in</strong>ition, require <strong>the</strong> accumulation of genetic differencesover long periods of time.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?30www.acres.org.sg


The welfare implications of keep<strong>in</strong>g polar bears <strong>in</strong> unsuitable climates washighlighted <strong>in</strong> 2001, when <strong>the</strong>re was <strong>in</strong>ternational outrage at <strong>the</strong> conditionsof polar bears be<strong>in</strong>g kept at a circus <strong>in</strong> Puerto Rico. The conditions <strong>the</strong> bearswere kept <strong>in</strong> were judged “<strong>in</strong>humane”: “The polar bears were kept <strong>in</strong>tropical heat of as much as 112°F (44.4 o C), often without air-condition<strong>in</strong>g oraccess to pools of cold water”. 53 The polar bears were subsequentlyconfiscated by <strong>the</strong> U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. When comment<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong>case, Dr. Naomi Rose, Humane Society of <strong>the</strong> United States mar<strong>in</strong>e mammalscientist, noted that <strong>the</strong> bears were "forced to live <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> most unnaturalconditions. In <strong>the</strong> Arctic, air temperatures rarely exceed 65°F <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>summer, and water temperatures always hover around freez<strong>in</strong>g. In <strong>the</strong>w<strong>in</strong>ter temperatures dip well below zero. Even <strong>in</strong> this natural environment,overheat<strong>in</strong>g can be a serious concern for polar bears, especially if <strong>the</strong>y exert<strong>the</strong>mselves. Forc<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>se bears to perform tricks <strong>in</strong> tropical conditionsplaces <strong>the</strong>m at risk of overheat<strong>in</strong>g and suffer<strong>in</strong>g collapse." 53What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?31www.acres.org.sg


3.2.4 Algal growth <strong>in</strong> furInuka covered <strong>in</strong> algae.Both bears have <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> past shown signs of algal growth <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> hair shaft,caus<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir fur to turn green. The algae responsible are thought to beblue-green algae (Cyanophyta) which grow <strong>in</strong>side <strong>the</strong> hollow outer guardhairs. 54Green fur is apparently a phenomenon only ever seen <strong>in</strong> captive polar bearsand only <strong>in</strong> warm wea<strong>the</strong>r. There have been no comparable records of greenbears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild, and no algal associations have been found with <strong>the</strong> peltsof wild bears. 54The algae itself does not harm <strong>the</strong> bear; it is what <strong>the</strong> algae signifies that is<strong>the</strong> problem. In captive polar bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> summer months <strong>the</strong> habitat of <strong>the</strong>hollow hairs suit <strong>the</strong> algal cells well as it is warm and moist. 54The rampant algal <strong>in</strong>festation of <strong>the</strong> fur of <strong>the</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore zoo polar bears is<strong>the</strong>refore a clear <strong>in</strong>dication that <strong>the</strong>ir fur is warm and moist which stronglysuggests <strong>the</strong>ir bodies are hot and also <strong>in</strong>dicates that <strong>the</strong>ir fur is damp forsubstantial periods of time. The appearance of algae <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> hair shaft is<strong>the</strong>refore likely to be partly caused by <strong>the</strong> fact that <strong>the</strong> bears have no softsubstrates that <strong>the</strong>y can use to dry off when <strong>the</strong>y come out of <strong>the</strong> water.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?32www.acres.org.sg


3.3 ConclusionThe polar bears are undoubtedly too hot liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore’s climate. Theyare physiologically adapted to an Arctic climate and simply cannot adapt toa tropical climate.There is no doubt that S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo recognises <strong>the</strong> fact that <strong>the</strong> climate <strong>in</strong>S<strong>in</strong>gapore is hot and it is uncomfortable to be outdoors <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> heat as itoffers numerous air-conditioned facilities for visitors.While air-conditioned dens <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> back area of <strong>the</strong> enclosure are provided to<strong>the</strong> polar bears, <strong>the</strong> dens are grossly undersized.If <strong>the</strong> male bear lies down sprawled on his belly on <strong>the</strong> floor of his den, hewill fill <strong>the</strong> whole space. If he chooses to enter <strong>the</strong> air-conditioned dens, hewill <strong>the</strong>refore be conf<strong>in</strong>ed to an extremely small area. If he rema<strong>in</strong>s <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>open-air enclosure, he will suffer from heat stress. Therefore, ei<strong>the</strong>r way,he will be uncomfortable.S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo does recognise <strong>the</strong> need for some animals, such as <strong>the</strong> jackasspengu<strong>in</strong>s, to have fully air-conditioned enclosures.For <strong>the</strong> short-term improvement of <strong>the</strong> welfare of <strong>the</strong> polar bears, a fullyair-conditioned enclosure and chilled pool water should be provided for <strong>the</strong>bears.However, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> long-term, once Sheba passes away, Inuka should berelocated to a facility where <strong>the</strong> local climate is more suitable.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?33www.acres.org.sg


What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?34www.acres.org.sg


CHAPTER 4EFFECTS OF CAPTIVITY ON SINGAPORE ZOOPOLAR BEARS4.1 Detailed behavioural study: Effects of captivity4.1.1 MethodsA prelim<strong>in</strong>ary study was conducted <strong>in</strong> August 2005. The prelim<strong>in</strong>ary studyprovided an opportunity for <strong>the</strong> observers to familiarise <strong>the</strong>mselves with <strong>the</strong>behavioural repertoire of <strong>the</strong> animals, as well as ref<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> observationprotocol.S<strong>in</strong>ce data on behavioural states ra<strong>the</strong>r than events were collected and <strong>the</strong>subjects were sampled us<strong>in</strong>g a few behavioural categories (Table 4.1), <strong>the</strong>polar bears were observed <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir enclosure us<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>stantaneous and scananimal sampl<strong>in</strong>g. 45 Scans were made every two m<strong>in</strong>utes to determ<strong>in</strong>e whichof <strong>the</strong> behaviour categories (def<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> Table 4.1 and 4.2) each <strong>in</strong>dividualwas engaged <strong>in</strong>. The sampl<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>terval of two m<strong>in</strong>utes was chosen after <strong>the</strong>prelim<strong>in</strong>ary study, s<strong>in</strong>ce it gave <strong>the</strong> closest account of <strong>the</strong>ir behaviour.Ad libitum sampl<strong>in</strong>g was also used to record novel or <strong>in</strong>trigu<strong>in</strong>g behavioursand actions.Follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> prelim<strong>in</strong>ary study, observations were made from Septemberuntil December 2005 between <strong>the</strong> hours of approximately 1000 and 1730 fora total of seven days. Observations were made for 3150 m<strong>in</strong>utes with a totalof 1575 sample po<strong>in</strong>ts.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?35www.acres.org.sg


Table 4.1 Categories of behaviours observed <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> captive bearsActivitiesDef<strong>in</strong>itionInactiveRest<strong>in</strong>g Body stationary and not <strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> any significant activity.ActiveAbnormal A behaviour that, by and large, does not occur <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild.behaviourShow An unnatural behaviour performed on demand dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>behaviour token feed<strong>in</strong>g show.Locomotion Movement of <strong>the</strong> entire body on land exceed<strong>in</strong>g one metre.Swimm<strong>in</strong>g Movement through <strong>the</strong> water of more than one metre.Feed<strong>in</strong>g Actively manipulat<strong>in</strong>g food with <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>tention of eat<strong>in</strong>g it.This category <strong>in</strong>cludes dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g.Social Any form of <strong>in</strong>teraction where <strong>the</strong>re is contact betweenbehaviour <strong>in</strong>dividuals.Play Significantly manipulat<strong>in</strong>g and mov<strong>in</strong>g objects.Out of sightOut of sight Inside <strong>the</strong> night den.Table 4.2 Categories of abnormal behavioursActivitiesDef<strong>in</strong>itionHead weav<strong>in</strong>g The mov<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong> head from side to side <strong>in</strong> arepetitive motion.Pac<strong>in</strong>gThe constant motion of an animal between two ormore po<strong>in</strong>ts <strong>in</strong> an enclosure <strong>in</strong> a repetitivemanner.StereotypicA constant swimm<strong>in</strong>g pattern between two or moreswimm<strong>in</strong>gpo<strong>in</strong>ts with<strong>in</strong> a pool <strong>in</strong> which movements arerepetitive.Sway<strong>in</strong>gSide to side motion, sometimes caus<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> frontlegs to lift, caus<strong>in</strong>g a bounc<strong>in</strong>g effect.Neck turn<strong>in</strong>g When an animal throws its head back <strong>in</strong> a violentcircular motion, sometimes dur<strong>in</strong>g a change ofdirection dur<strong>in</strong>g pac<strong>in</strong>g/walk<strong>in</strong>g about <strong>the</strong> cage,but may occur from a stationary position as <strong>the</strong>animal resumes forward movement.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?36www.acres.org.sg


4.1.2 ResultsTABLE 4.3 Activity pattern of InukaActivities No. of sample po<strong>in</strong>ts PercentageRest<strong>in</strong>g 670 42.5Abnormal behaviour 508 32.3Show behaviour 8 0.5Locomotion 50 3.2Swimm<strong>in</strong>g 78 5.0Feed<strong>in</strong>g 47 3.0Social behaviour 43 2.7Play 53 3.4Out of sight 118 7.57%ActiveInactiveOut of sight50%43%Percentage of occurrence of <strong>in</strong>active and active behaviours of Inuka.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?37www.acres.org.sg


TABLE 4.4 Activity pattern of ShebaActivities No. of sample po<strong>in</strong>ts PercentageRest<strong>in</strong>g 1018 64.6Abnormal behaviour 310 19.7Show behaviour 7 0.4Locomotion 55 3.5Swimm<strong>in</strong>g 60 3.8Feed<strong>in</strong>g 40 2.5Social behaviour 43 2.7Play 31 2.0Out of sight 11 0.71%35%ActiveInactiveOut of sight64%Percentage of occurrence of <strong>in</strong>active and active behaviours of Sheba.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?38www.acres.org.sg


TABLE 4.5 Abnormal behaviour profile of Inuka.Activities No. of sample po<strong>in</strong>ts PercentageHead weav<strong>in</strong>g 163 32.1Pac<strong>in</strong>g 97 19.1Stereotypic swimm<strong>in</strong>g 238 46.9O<strong>the</strong>rs 10 2.035%AbnormalbehavioursNormal behaviours65%Percentage of occurrence of abnormal behaviours displayed by Inukadur<strong>in</strong>g active periods.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?39www.acres.org.sg


TABLE 4.6 Abnormal behaviour profile of Sheba.Activities No. of sample po<strong>in</strong>ts PercentageHead weav<strong>in</strong>g 278 89.7Pac<strong>in</strong>g 9 2.9Stereotypic swimm<strong>in</strong>g 22 7.1O<strong>the</strong>rs 1 0.3AbnormalbehavioursNormal behaviours43%57%Percentage of occurrence of abnormal behaviours displayed by Shebadur<strong>in</strong>g active periods.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?40www.acres.org.sg


4.2 Discussion of resultsWallNight den entranceWallBouldersGroup of bouldersLand areaPoolAbove: Inuka pac<strong>in</strong>g. He spent 64.5 per cent of <strong>the</strong> active periodsperform<strong>in</strong>g stereotypic behaviours.Below: The pac<strong>in</strong>g route most commonly walked by Inuka.Both Inuka and Sheba displayed high levels of <strong>in</strong>activity; 42.5 per cent and64.6 per cent respectively. Inuka and Sheba also displayed high levels ofabnormal stereotypic behaviours; 64.5 per cent and 56.7 per cent of <strong>the</strong>active periods respectively.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?41www.acres.org.sg


4.2.1 Prevalence of abnormal stereotypic behaviours and <strong>in</strong>activityBoth bears spent a large proportion of <strong>the</strong>ir time <strong>in</strong>active, especially Sheba.This is likely due <strong>in</strong> part to <strong>the</strong> extremely hot ambient temperatures that<strong>the</strong>y are exposed to on a daily basis and <strong>the</strong> un<strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g liv<strong>in</strong>g conditions.Excessive <strong>in</strong>activity <strong>in</strong> zooanimals is one of <strong>the</strong>recognised signs of chronicstress. 7 <strong>Animal</strong>s housed <strong>in</strong> abarren environment showan overall decrease <strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>teraction with <strong>the</strong>environment. 55 Thisdecrease <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>teractionresults <strong>in</strong> a high level of<strong>in</strong>activity. The lack ofsufficient space, climb<strong>in</strong>gstructures, manipulableobjects, enrichment andproper feed<strong>in</strong>g husbandryall contribute to this lackof activity and <strong>the</strong>result<strong>in</strong>g boredom of <strong>the</strong>bears. Broom and JohnsonBoth polar bears spent an excessiveamounts of time engaged <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>activebehaviours.(1993) emphasise that a “profound lack of stimulation is someth<strong>in</strong>g to whichno vertebrate is likely to adapt”. 56Whe<strong>the</strong>r <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild or <strong>in</strong> captivity, every liv<strong>in</strong>g organism is affected by <strong>the</strong>environment <strong>in</strong> which it lives. 8 Individuals have to constantly adapt to <strong>the</strong>chang<strong>in</strong>g environment. However, some environmental stimuli are so <strong>in</strong>tense,prolonged or frequent that adaptation is impossible 56 and this result <strong>in</strong> an<strong>in</strong>creased level of stress <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> animals. This can be manifested <strong>in</strong> a varietyof ways, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g changes <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> animal’s behaviour.Follow<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>itial exposure to a stressful stimulus, <strong>the</strong> general emergencyresponse is <strong>in</strong>itiated, but once control over <strong>the</strong> situation is not achieved,two dist<strong>in</strong>ct cop<strong>in</strong>g mechanisms become activated <strong>in</strong> both humans and nonhumananimals. 57 They are referred to as active and passive chronic stressresponse. 8The active chronic stress response is characterised by active attempts tocontrol a situation by fight<strong>in</strong>g or flee<strong>in</strong>g. The passive chronic stress responseis <strong>in</strong>itiated after active strategies have failed to resolve <strong>the</strong> problem. 8 It ischaracterised by <strong>in</strong>creased pituitary-adrenocortical activity, immobility and<strong>in</strong>dications of depression. 8 It is also characterised by <strong>the</strong> behaviouralWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?42www.acres.org.sg


Startpo<strong>in</strong>tLand areaWaterfallKicks offswimm<strong>in</strong>gon back,<strong>the</strong>n divesdownOverhang<strong>in</strong>gBoulderSwims underthis boulderPoolUnderwaterBoulderSwims on <strong>the</strong>surface toboulder wherehe rests for afew secondsThe stereotypic swimm<strong>in</strong>g route most commonly used by Inuka.response termed ‘learned helplessness’. 58 This <strong>in</strong>volves <strong>the</strong> shift of <strong>the</strong>behaviour of <strong>the</strong> animals from an active state <strong>in</strong>to a more passive, <strong>in</strong>activestate.Both Sheba and Inuka have been recorded display<strong>in</strong>g various abnormalstereotypic behaviours <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g pac<strong>in</strong>g and swimm<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> a stereotypicfashion. Sheba also appears to have developed a chronic tongue play<strong>in</strong>ghabit (constant manipulation of <strong>the</strong> tongue with no apparent purpose),which has been recognised as a form of stereotypic behaviour. 59,60Stereotypic behaviours are repeatedly performed, relatively <strong>in</strong>variantmovement patterns with no apparent function or goal. 61 These behavioursare clearly an <strong>in</strong>dication of an abnormal animal-environment <strong>in</strong>teraction. 7For most wild mammals <strong>in</strong> captivity, this probably means that <strong>the</strong> animalgrew up <strong>in</strong> or is currently liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> an environment suboptimal for meet<strong>in</strong>g itsnatural, species-specific behavioural needs. 7 These stereotypic behavioursare almost unique to captive animals. 59Stereotypies <strong>in</strong> captive animals have been associated with poor welfare forfive decades. 8 This is because <strong>the</strong>y tend to develop <strong>in</strong> situations that havebeen identified as stressful and aversive. 7,62 On <strong>the</strong> basis of behavioural andphysiological evidence such situations <strong>in</strong>clude lack of stimulation,unavoidable fear or frustration 63 and absence of a resource, or resources,required by <strong>the</strong> animal. 64 Such resource requirements can range from accessWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?43www.acres.org.sg


to more space, a more complex, quieter or more <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g environment,food, social and sexual partners, or ability to perform certa<strong>in</strong> behaviours.<strong>Bear</strong>s generally have large home ranges <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild. These species that arewide-rang<strong>in</strong>g and opportunistic might be expected to have a greatertendency to develop certa<strong>in</strong> atypical behaviours such as stereotypic pac<strong>in</strong>g.<strong>Bear</strong>s and small carnivores are particularly sensitive to “motor restra<strong>in</strong>t bylack of space” .8The expression of stereotypic behaviour is “<strong>the</strong> most common visible sign ofpsychological disorder <strong>in</strong> all species of zoo bears”. 94.3 ConclusionBased on <strong>the</strong> results of <strong>the</strong> study and clear evidence of significantbehavioural abnormalities for Sheba and Inuka, <strong>the</strong> welfare of <strong>the</strong> polarbears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo appears to have been severely compromised. Theirhigh levels of <strong>in</strong>activity and abnormal stereotypic behaviours are a clear<strong>in</strong>dication that <strong>the</strong>ir current liv<strong>in</strong>g conditions fail to meet <strong>the</strong>ir speciesspecificneeds.These welfare problems are likely to be a result of <strong>the</strong> problems <strong>in</strong> enclosuredesign and husbandry at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo discussed <strong>in</strong> Chapter 5.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?44www.acres.org.sg


CHAPTER 5PROBLEMS IN POLAR BEAR ENCLOSURE DESIGN ANDHUSBANDRY AT SINGAPORE ZOOThe polar bear enclosure at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo is undersized, barren, poorlydesigned, does not accommodate any soft substrates and does little tosatisfy <strong>the</strong> biological and behavioural needs of <strong>the</strong> bears. These suboptimalconditions have most probably contributed to <strong>the</strong> high level of abnormalstereotypic behaviours and <strong>in</strong>activity discussed <strong>in</strong> Chapter 4.5.1 Problems <strong>in</strong> enclosure design and husbandryThe urgent need to apply biological knowledge of <strong>the</strong> species’ naturallifestyle to <strong>the</strong> captive environment is habitually emphasised throughout <strong>the</strong>contemporary bear husbandry literature. 8There are a number of problems with both enclosure design and husbandrypractices for <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo. These problems have beenhighlighted by <strong>the</strong> previous report submitted by Acres and WSPA.The follow<strong>in</strong>g sections provide an overview of <strong>the</strong> problems and compare <strong>the</strong>current S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo polar bear enclosure and husbandry practices to thosedescribed <strong>in</strong> standards conta<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> national legislation, zoo guidel<strong>in</strong>es andrecommendations made by animal welfare organisations.There are a number of guidel<strong>in</strong>es and legislations that have been writtenand published by zoo associations, zookeeper associations, <strong>in</strong>dividual zoos,governments and animal welfare groups regard<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> m<strong>in</strong>imum standardsacceptable regard<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of wild animals <strong>in</strong> captivity. Many of <strong>the</strong>guidel<strong>in</strong>es and legislation recognise bears as animals with special needs andmake specific recommendations accord<strong>in</strong>gly, ei<strong>the</strong>r for bears <strong>in</strong> general orfor specific species. Some <strong>in</strong>clude specific guidel<strong>in</strong>es for polar bears.A number of guidel<strong>in</strong>es and legislation, specifically written for bears, will beused throughout this report for comparative purposes. Fur<strong>the</strong>r detailsregard<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>se guidel<strong>in</strong>es and legislation can be found <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> WSPA report “Keep<strong>in</strong>g bears <strong>in</strong> captivity”. 2What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?45www.acres.org.sg


Guidel<strong>in</strong>es and LegislationsGuidel<strong>in</strong>es 2,12,13,14,15,16,17TAG guidel<strong>in</strong>esIn 1998 <strong>the</strong> Taxon Advisory Group (TAG) of <strong>the</strong> European Endangered SpeciesProgram (EEP) published guidel<strong>in</strong>es for keep<strong>in</strong>g bears <strong>in</strong> captivity. The EEP is asubdivision of EAZA (European Association of Zoological Parks and Aquaria).ABWAK guidel<strong>in</strong>esIn 1992 <strong>the</strong> Association of British Wild <strong>Animal</strong> Keepers (ABWAK) published acompilation of articles with management recommendations for bears written byvarious authors: “Management guidel<strong>in</strong>es for bears and raccoons.”IBF guidel<strong>in</strong>esIn 1996 <strong>the</strong> International <strong>Bear</strong> Foundation (IBF), Rhenen, Europe published <strong>the</strong>proceed<strong>in</strong>gs of an <strong>in</strong>ternational workshop on captive bear management: “Largebear enclosures”. The group made recommendations relat<strong>in</strong>g to bearmanagement.UFAW recommendationsIn 1993 UFAW (Universities Federation for <strong>Animal</strong> Welfare) published a reportbased on behavioural studies of polar bears <strong>in</strong> zoos <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> United K<strong>in</strong>gdom: “Thebehaviour of captive polar bears”. Subsequently, UFAW made a number ofrecommendations about <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of polar bears <strong>in</strong> captivity.WSPA recommendationsWSPA has recently compiled a set of Recommended M<strong>in</strong>imum Needs for captivebears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> report “Keep<strong>in</strong>g bears <strong>in</strong> captivity”. Although not published yet,<strong>the</strong>se guidel<strong>in</strong>es will be referred to. The WSPA report reviews current guidel<strong>in</strong>esfor keep<strong>in</strong>g bears <strong>in</strong> captivity and compiles a set of best standards, termedRecommended M<strong>in</strong>imum Needs. These are based on current knowledge on howbear species should be kept but will be cont<strong>in</strong>ually updated as knowledge<strong>in</strong>creases.Legislation 5,11,44,65The various legislation <strong>in</strong> place for different countries regard<strong>in</strong>g specificrecommendations for polar bears will be referred to for comparison whereapplicable, such as when consider<strong>in</strong>g size of enclosures.Throughout <strong>the</strong> report, <strong>the</strong> standards conta<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Actof Manitoba will also be used as a benchmark set of standards aga<strong>in</strong>st which <strong>the</strong>standards at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo can be measured. The Manitoba standards arecomprehensive, cover a wide range of husbandry areas and <strong>the</strong> Act has actuallybeen passed as a law.Recommendations of <strong>the</strong> Scientific CITES Authorities of Liechtenste<strong>in</strong> andSwitzerland and <strong>the</strong> Prov<strong>in</strong>ce of Newfoundland and Labrador- Wild Life Act willalso be discussed.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?46www.acres.org.sg


5.1.1 Problems <strong>in</strong> enclosure designSize of enclosureThe amount of space provided for <strong>the</strong> polar bears <strong>in</strong> both <strong>the</strong> outdoorenclosure and <strong>in</strong>door dens is <strong>in</strong>adequate and fails to satisfy <strong>the</strong> standardsrequired by certa<strong>in</strong> legislation. The enclosure is too small overall to allowfor <strong>the</strong> expression of a full range of species-typical behaviours andmovements. This has probably resulted <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> high levels of abnormalstereotypic behaviours recorded dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> study (Chapter 4).One of <strong>the</strong> most obvious problemswith <strong>the</strong> polar bear enclosure atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo is <strong>the</strong> small amountof space, especially dry land area,provided for <strong>the</strong> bears. <strong>Polar</strong> bearsare renowned for <strong>the</strong>ir nomadiclifestyle and have exceptionallyvast home ranges <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild. Thehome range of a polar bear <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>wild can reach 31,000 squaremiles. 1 The S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo polarbear enclosure thus provides onlyapproximately 0.0000005 per centof <strong>the</strong> polar bear’s natural homerange.Outdoor enclosureThe outdoor enclosure, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong> pool, has an area ofapproximately 400m². 66 The surfacearea of <strong>the</strong> pool is larger than <strong>the</strong>area of dry land of <strong>the</strong> exhibit.The dry land area of <strong>the</strong> enclosureis small and offers no room forsignificant exercise or a mean<strong>in</strong>gfulenrichment programme. Once <strong>the</strong>boulders are taken <strong>in</strong>to account,<strong>the</strong> actual floor space available to<strong>the</strong> bears is even more limited.In terms of outdoor enclosuresize, <strong>the</strong> polar bear enclosure atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo does not meet <strong>the</strong>m<strong>in</strong>imum standards stated by <strong>the</strong><strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act,Manitoba. It falls far short of <strong>the</strong>Legislation regard<strong>in</strong>g enclosure sizeThe <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act,Manitoba 11• An exhibit area <strong>in</strong> a facilityconta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g one or two polar bearsmust be at least 500m². The size of<strong>the</strong> exhibit area must <strong>in</strong>crease byan additional 150m² for eachadditional polar bear <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> facility.• An off-exhibit area <strong>in</strong> a facilityconta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g one or more polar bearsmust be at least 75m². The size of<strong>the</strong> off-exhibit area must <strong>in</strong>creaseby an additional 25m² for eachadditional polar bear <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> facility.• A facility must have a hold<strong>in</strong>g areafor each polar bear that is a least4m x 3m x 2.5m.Scientific CITES Authorities ofLiechtenste<strong>in</strong> and Switzerland 65• Although not legally b<strong>in</strong>d<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>the</strong>Scientific CITES Authorities ofLiechtenste<strong>in</strong> and Switzerland,1989 recommended a m<strong>in</strong>imumenclosure size for two polar bearsof 400m² land surface area (100m²per additional adult) and am<strong>in</strong>imum pool surface area of100m² (50 m² per additional adult).Prov<strong>in</strong>ce of Newfoundland andLabrador- Wild Life Act 44• For polar bears, <strong>the</strong> m<strong>in</strong>imumsurface area per pair is 4,500m²with a m<strong>in</strong>imum additional 2,000m²per animal.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?47www.acres.org.sg


equirements stated <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> Prov<strong>in</strong>ce of Newfoundland and Labrador- WildLife Act and those recommended by WSPA (Appendix 1). It does not fulfill<strong>the</strong> recommended m<strong>in</strong>imum size of outdoor land surface arearecommended by <strong>the</strong> Scientific CITES Authorities of Liechtenste<strong>in</strong> andSwitzerland.Off-exhibit areaElse Poulsen was given a tour of <strong>the</strong> bear’s <strong>in</strong>door dens dur<strong>in</strong>g her visit to<strong>the</strong> zoo <strong>in</strong> 2005. Accord<strong>in</strong>g to her report, <strong>the</strong> dens are too small. 10 Shesuggests that if Inuka lies down sprawled on his belly on <strong>the</strong> floor of his<strong>in</strong>door cage he will fill <strong>the</strong> whole space. Else also expressed doubts as towhe<strong>the</strong>r Sheba would be able to lie down on <strong>the</strong> floor with her legs sprawledto cool off <strong>in</strong> any of her three cages. The platform between <strong>the</strong> two <strong>in</strong>nerdens and <strong>the</strong> door to <strong>the</strong> outdoor exhibit is described as be<strong>in</strong>g too small toseat both bears at <strong>the</strong> same time and is too small to accommodate a ly<strong>in</strong>gbear. As stated by Poulsen (2005), “The back areas have no redeem<strong>in</strong>gqualities for polar bears. Noth<strong>in</strong>g liv<strong>in</strong>g should be housed <strong>in</strong> thosecages.” 10Enclosures conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g captive wild animals should provide sufficient space toallow <strong>the</strong> expression of a full range of species-typical behaviour andmovements. Lack of space is a major factor contribut<strong>in</strong>g to poor welfare forcaptive animals. Enclosure size has been identified as a factor <strong>in</strong>fluenc<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong> development and form of stereotypic behaviour. 67 Smaller, lesscomplex enclosures are known to result <strong>in</strong> stereotypic, self-destructiveand o<strong>the</strong>r abnormal behaviour <strong>in</strong> a variety of mammals and birds. 60,68 Inaddition, it has been found that for carnivores, frequency and prevalenceof pac<strong>in</strong>g is positively correlated with home range size <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild. 69 Bothpolar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo were observed display<strong>in</strong>g a high level ofabnormal stereotypic behaviours (Chapter 4).The amount of space provided for captive animals is so critical to <strong>the</strong>ir wellbe<strong>in</strong>g,especially for wide-rang<strong>in</strong>g animals such as polar bears, thatm<strong>in</strong>imum enclosure size requirements for certa<strong>in</strong> species are actually statedby law <strong>in</strong> some countries or prov<strong>in</strong>ces with<strong>in</strong> countries.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?48www.acres.org.sg


Overall enclosure designThe polar bear enclosure has a concrete substrate and lacks anyfunctional furniture for <strong>the</strong> bears to utilise.The overall enclosure design is outdated, lack<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> complexity and doesnot meet <strong>the</strong> bears’ needs on some very basic levels.In <strong>the</strong> past, bear enclosures have typically been made of concrete, rock andwater, with few, if any, moveable objects. S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo’s polar bearenclosure embodies this outdated concept. It is now recognised that <strong>the</strong>re islittle <strong>in</strong> such an area that relates to <strong>the</strong> natural habitat of <strong>the</strong> animals.Consequently, when polar bears are kept <strong>in</strong> enclosures of such design, <strong>the</strong>reis little to stimulate <strong>the</strong>ir natural behaviour and well-be<strong>in</strong>g. 36Op<strong>in</strong>ions on appropriateness of current bear enclosures are generally <strong>in</strong>agreement that bare, concrete enclosures are not suitable environments forbears (Appendix II).The style of <strong>the</strong> polar bear enclosure at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo is that of a typicalNorth American 1960’s-1970’s cement fortress exhibit style. Such enclosuresare known to damage an animal’s mental and physical well-be<strong>in</strong>g 10 TheWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?49www.acres.org.sg


problem with <strong>the</strong>se old designs is that <strong>the</strong>y do not meet <strong>the</strong> bear’s needs onsome very basic levels.The outdoor enclosure of <strong>the</strong> polar bears comprises a dry cement pen<strong>in</strong>sulaand a pool. The dry cement area is completely barren apart from a fewboulders and <strong>the</strong>refore lacks any complexity. The outdoor enclosure isconcrete and <strong>the</strong>re is <strong>the</strong>refore no natural ground vegetation, trees orbushes. There are no natural substrates provided and no furniture o<strong>the</strong>r than<strong>the</strong> artificial boulders.Clearly, <strong>the</strong> outdoor enclosure atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo does not fulfillmany of <strong>the</strong> requirements andrecommendations stated by <strong>the</strong>various zoo associations andanimal welfare organisations(Appendix II) <strong>in</strong> terms of provid<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong> essential components of apolar bear enclosure. It is hard tosee how <strong>the</strong> enclosure atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo can accommodatefor a full behavioural repertoirewhen <strong>the</strong>re are clearly nopossibilities for forag<strong>in</strong>g, digg<strong>in</strong>g,climb<strong>in</strong>g and rest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> naturalsubstrates.Legislation regard<strong>in</strong>g enclosure design<strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba 11• The exhibit should be of sufficientsize and design to discourage <strong>the</strong>development of unnaturalbehaviours, enable <strong>the</strong> animal(s) toexercise a range of physicalactivities to ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong> good physicalcondition and facilitate public<strong>in</strong>terpretation.• The <strong>in</strong>door areas of a facility musthave skylights to provide naturallight<strong>in</strong>g. Any artificial light<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> afacility must be of an <strong>in</strong>tensity thatdoes not threaten <strong>the</strong> well-be<strong>in</strong>g andcomfort of <strong>the</strong> polar bear.Fur<strong>the</strong>rmore, <strong>the</strong>re is no choice ofmicroclimate provided for <strong>the</strong> bears, and <strong>the</strong>ir limited view out of <strong>the</strong>enclosure is restricted to <strong>the</strong> areas where visitors stand.Many of <strong>the</strong> guidel<strong>in</strong>es recommend a m<strong>in</strong>imum of two separate outdoorenclosures to house two polar bears for segregation purposes. At S<strong>in</strong>gaporeZoo <strong>the</strong>re is only one enclosure.Both <strong>the</strong> TAG and WSPA guidel<strong>in</strong>es recommend that <strong>the</strong> ratio of water toland must not exceed 1:3. At S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo <strong>the</strong> surface area of <strong>the</strong> pool islarger than <strong>the</strong> dry land portion of <strong>the</strong> exhibit. <strong>Polar</strong> bears are bears firstand mar<strong>in</strong>e mammals second, 10 so <strong>the</strong> enclosure design should reflect this,which it clearly does not.Overall, <strong>the</strong> outdoor exhibit gets a fail<strong>in</strong>g grade for polar bears accord<strong>in</strong>gto Poulsen (2005). 10What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?50www.acres.org.sg


Off-exhibit areaThe bears spend <strong>the</strong> vast majority of <strong>the</strong>ir time <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door enclosures,<strong>the</strong>refore <strong>the</strong> standard of <strong>the</strong>se facilities is critical for <strong>the</strong> overall well-be<strong>in</strong>gof <strong>the</strong> bears. Accord<strong>in</strong>g to Poulsen (2005), <strong>the</strong> back areas for <strong>the</strong> bears arewholly substandard. 10 The area where <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door cages are located isdescribed as dark and humid with no natural light. The bears cannot see outof <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door dens. 10The off-exhibit area for <strong>the</strong> bears does not comply with <strong>the</strong> <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong>Protection Act, Manitoba, standards which state that <strong>in</strong>door areas must havenatural light<strong>in</strong>g.The <strong>in</strong>door areas clearly do not fulfill many of <strong>the</strong> requirements andrecommendations stated by <strong>the</strong> various zoo associations and animal welfareorganisations (see Appendices). WSPA guidel<strong>in</strong>es state that dens that arebare, damp and with a concrete floor are not acceptable. They recommendthat <strong>in</strong>door facilities should be as <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g and hospitable as outdoorquarters with elevated rest<strong>in</strong>g platforms and <strong>the</strong>y should allow for entry ofnatural light. ABWAK guidel<strong>in</strong>es state for <strong>in</strong>door accommodation, bearsshould be able to view beyond <strong>the</strong>ir enclosure boundary (Appendix II).What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?51www.acres.org.sg


SubstrateThe polar bear enclosure does not accommodate any soft substrate and<strong>the</strong> floor<strong>in</strong>g is full concrete. Concrete floor<strong>in</strong>g is an <strong>in</strong>appropriatesubstrate for any captive wild animal, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g bears, and fails toprovide for species-specific behaviours (such as forag<strong>in</strong>g or digg<strong>in</strong>g) and<strong>the</strong> construction of day beds.The provision of natural substrates should be considered a fundamental needfor polar bears when try<strong>in</strong>g to accommodate for <strong>the</strong>ir natural behaviour <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> wild.As <strong>the</strong> polar bear enclosure atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo is concrete <strong>the</strong>re isno natural ground vegetation. Theexhibit also does not accommodateany areas of soft substrate. Dur<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong> study period, <strong>the</strong> polar bears atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo were not seen to beprovided with any soft substrate ormaterials suitable for nest build<strong>in</strong>g.Legislation regard<strong>in</strong>g substrates<strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba 11• The exhibit area must <strong>in</strong>clude anarea at least 125m² that iscovered by soil, straw, wood chipsor o<strong>the</strong>r suitably soft substrate.<strong>Polar</strong> bears are well known for <strong>the</strong>ir habit of construct<strong>in</strong>g day beds to rest<strong>in</strong>. A polar bear day bed is a hole about half to one and a half metres deepand from one to two metres wide usually dug <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> snow. 25 Wild polar bearshave been shown to manipulate a wide range of soft substrates o<strong>the</strong>r thansnow to build day beds, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g lichen and moss, sand, tall grass andkelp. 36 Soft substrate to dig <strong>in</strong>to of significant depth so <strong>the</strong>y can adjust <strong>the</strong>irown body temperature is a basic polar bear need. 10All bears, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g polar bears, also build nests, sometimes padded withvegetation, before settl<strong>in</strong>g down to sleep at night. 17Captive bears appreciate <strong>the</strong> comfort of nest<strong>in</strong>g material. 13 It has beensuggested by some that nest build<strong>in</strong>g constitutes a behavioural need forbears. 8 The term ‘need’ has been def<strong>in</strong>ed by Fraser and Broom (1990) as adeficiency <strong>in</strong> an animal which can be remedied only by obta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g a particularresource or respond<strong>in</strong>g to a particular environmental or bodily stimulus. 46 If<strong>the</strong> animal is unable to satisfy a need, <strong>the</strong> consequence, ei<strong>the</strong>r shortly oreventually, will be poor welfare. 8 Because bears construct nests both <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>wild and <strong>in</strong> captivity, <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>ability to do so may lead to behaviouralfrustration as well as physical discomfort. 8What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?52www.acres.org.sg


The provision of naturalsubstrates, ei<strong>the</strong>r naturalground vegetation or areas ofloose natural materials or both,is a common recommendation <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> guidel<strong>in</strong>es of zooassociations and animal welfareorganisations (Appendix IV).S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo does not appearto implement any of <strong>the</strong>serecommendations <strong>in</strong> terms ofprovid<strong>in</strong>g natural substratesfor <strong>the</strong> polar bears.Past studies have providedevidence of a preference forsoft substrates exhibited bypolar bears. For example, <strong>in</strong> onedocumented case at Dubl<strong>in</strong> Zoo,a polar bear was seen to spendeighty per cent of his time <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> sand and bark litterfollow<strong>in</strong>g modification of hisenclosure to <strong>in</strong>clude areas of<strong>the</strong>se substrates. 13ConcreteAs a substrate, concrete fails to providefor any species-specific behaviours such asdigg<strong>in</strong>g or forag<strong>in</strong>g. Lack of suitablesubstrate for <strong>the</strong>se behaviours is a seriouswelfare issue as it limits <strong>the</strong> opportunitiesavailable to <strong>the</strong> bears to be actively<strong>in</strong>volved <strong>in</strong> activities such as digg<strong>in</strong>g. Ithas been suggested that animals kept <strong>in</strong>an environment with little or noth<strong>in</strong>g tooccupy <strong>the</strong>ir time often show abnormalbehaviour. 70Concrete is also particularly unsuitablesubstrate for polar bears, a speciesnotorious for pac<strong>in</strong>g, as contact with thishard substrate may lead to abrasions andsores on <strong>the</strong> polar bears’ feet, or footpadulcerations commonly observed <strong>in</strong> animalsexhibit<strong>in</strong>g stereotypic pac<strong>in</strong>g on concretesurfaces. 71 Ano<strong>the</strong>r problem with us<strong>in</strong>gconcrete as a substrate, especially <strong>in</strong> atropical climate, is that it radiates heat <strong>in</strong>hot wea<strong>the</strong>r, 8 thus subject<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> bears toextremes of temperature. Concretefloor<strong>in</strong>g is <strong>the</strong>refore a serious welfareissue for <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gaporezoo.The provision of naturalsubstrates such as earth, sand orwood chips can lower <strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong>rmal load on animals. 8,72Natural substratessuch as earth and wood chips are also desirable as substrates <strong>in</strong> terms of<strong>the</strong>ir manipulability and, unlike concrete, do not carry <strong>the</strong> risk of bearssplitt<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir claws. 8In <strong>the</strong> absence of snow to roll <strong>in</strong>, captive polar bears also require softsubstrates to effectively dry <strong>the</strong>ir fur after com<strong>in</strong>g out of <strong>the</strong> water. 10The importance of <strong>the</strong> provision of natural substrates for polar bears is socrucial that <strong>the</strong> <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba, requires that polarbear enclosures conta<strong>in</strong> an area of soft substrate measur<strong>in</strong>g at least125m². 11 S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo does not meet this requirement.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?53www.acres.org.sg


In <strong>the</strong> 2004 report, Acresrecommended that softsubstrates and an areawhere <strong>the</strong> bears canconstruct day beds shouldbe provided andsuggested that naturalground vegetation wouldbe <strong>the</strong> best for <strong>the</strong>bears. 18Acresrecommended cover<strong>in</strong>gareas with materials ofdifferent physicalproperties <strong>in</strong> shady andsunny places to creatediversity so that <strong>the</strong> bearscan elect day bedsappropriate to <strong>the</strong>different wea<strong>the</strong>rconditions. Acres alsosuggested construct<strong>in</strong>g anarea bordered by woodenlogs which could be filledwith soil <strong>in</strong> which agrass/herb mixture couldbe sown.In 1999, a study wascarried out at S<strong>in</strong>gaporeZoo to exam<strong>in</strong>e <strong>the</strong> effectsof environmentalenrichment on <strong>the</strong> polarbears. Although as part of<strong>the</strong> study <strong>the</strong> authors<strong>in</strong>itially <strong>in</strong>tended toAbove: <strong>Polar</strong> bears roll <strong>in</strong> snow to dry <strong>the</strong>irfur and groom <strong>the</strong>mselves.Below: With no soft substrate, <strong>the</strong> polarbears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo can only rub<strong>the</strong>mselves on hard concrete surfaces.<strong>in</strong>vestigate <strong>the</strong> effect of add<strong>in</strong>g areas of soft substrate to <strong>the</strong> enclosure,<strong>the</strong>y state that <strong>the</strong> zoo rejected <strong>the</strong> use of natural substrates as enrichmentbecause <strong>the</strong> pool had to stay clear of debris. 66However, <strong>the</strong> possibility of some substrates enter<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> pool does notnecessarily have to present a problem. Most importantly, polar bears do notappear to be affected by cloudy water 36 so <strong>the</strong> welfare of <strong>the</strong> bears is not anissue. In addition, it is likely that once <strong>the</strong> bears get used to <strong>the</strong> softsubstrates, <strong>the</strong>y will not tend to spread it around <strong>the</strong> enclosure.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?54www.acres.org.sg


A previous study showed that when polar bears were given pits of sand andbark <strong>in</strong> enclosures <strong>the</strong>y did <strong>in</strong>itially spent a lot of time digg<strong>in</strong>g and <strong>the</strong> sandand bark were scattered around enclosure. However, after <strong>the</strong> animals gotused to new areas (after approximately seven days) <strong>the</strong>y left <strong>the</strong> sand and<strong>the</strong> bark <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> pits. 36 To prevent <strong>the</strong> bears from track<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> naturalsubstrate <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> pool, Acres recommended a concrete lip be<strong>in</strong>gconstructed around <strong>the</strong> pool to prevent substrate materials be<strong>in</strong>g tracked<strong>in</strong>to it. 18 An effective filter system for <strong>the</strong> pool could also help negate <strong>the</strong>problem of substrate enter<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> pool water. If <strong>the</strong> zoo still does not wantto use certa<strong>in</strong> natural substrates because <strong>the</strong>y will affect <strong>the</strong> pool water,<strong>the</strong>re are o<strong>the</strong>r substrate options such as sand and smooth pebbles whichcan offer a natural area yet will not cloud water or clog filters.Any concerns about <strong>the</strong> hygiene of natural substrates <strong>in</strong> captive enclosuresare also unwarranted. 36 Substrates such as woodchips actually <strong>in</strong>hibitbacterial survival. It has been found that natural areas can providebehavioural and hygienic benefits for captive animals. 73The lack of soft substrate is likely to be contribut<strong>in</strong>g significantly to <strong>the</strong> sk<strong>in</strong>problems and fur loss exhibited by <strong>the</strong> bears. Dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> course of this study<strong>the</strong> bears were seen to frequently rub <strong>the</strong>ir bodies firmly aga<strong>in</strong>st <strong>the</strong>boulders and roll on <strong>the</strong> floor, particularly after com<strong>in</strong>g out of pool. Whilstthis behaviour is normal and is a way of dry<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir fur, when performedrepeatedly on a concrete surface <strong>the</strong> bears are likely to develop sk<strong>in</strong> sores.Dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> course of this study, Sheba was frequently seen to have red sk<strong>in</strong>and sores.In <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door cages, <strong>the</strong> bears do not receive any bedd<strong>in</strong>g and so are forcedto rest on <strong>the</strong> hard cement floor. 10 Both WSPA and UFAW guidel<strong>in</strong>esrecommend that nest<strong>in</strong>g materials shall be available <strong>in</strong> both <strong>in</strong>door andoutdoor quarters (Appendix IV).What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?55www.acres.org.sg


FurnitureThe enclosure does not provide sufficient furniture for <strong>the</strong> bears.Furniture refers to physical structures with<strong>in</strong> an enclosure that serve toenrich <strong>the</strong> animals environment, such as climb<strong>in</strong>g frames, giant rocks,mature trees, streams and pools.As stated by <strong>the</strong> Secretary of State Standards of Modern Zoo Practice, UnitedK<strong>in</strong>gdom: “<strong>Animal</strong>s should be provided with space and furniture to allowsuch exercise or forag<strong>in</strong>g behaviour as is needed for <strong>the</strong>ir welfare. <strong>Animal</strong>enclosures should be equipped, <strong>in</strong> accordance with <strong>the</strong> needs of <strong>the</strong> species,to m<strong>in</strong>imise any abnormal behaviour and to aid and encourage normalbehaviour patterns.” 74The polar bear enclosure atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo is barren, apartLegislation regard<strong>in</strong>g enclosure furniturefrom a few artificial boulders,The <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba 11and lacks complexity. There are• Exhibit area design: The exhibit areano natural features such as tree must conta<strong>in</strong> structural features suchtrunks that <strong>the</strong> bears can as rest<strong>in</strong>g platforms, waterfalls andexploit or utilise. There are no nest<strong>in</strong>g sites. It must also conta<strong>in</strong>structures for <strong>the</strong> bears to climb stabilised rocks, tree trunks or similaror elevated rest<strong>in</strong>g platforms. materials that are redesignedThe features of <strong>the</strong> polar bearenclosure appear not to haveperiodically to provide a change <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>environment for <strong>the</strong> polar bear.been altered for some time. The<strong>in</strong>door dens conta<strong>in</strong>ed nofurniture at all when <strong>the</strong>y were <strong>in</strong>spected <strong>in</strong> 2005.The provision of a variety of structural enclosure features for polar bears toutilise is widely recognised to be of great importance for <strong>the</strong>ir well-be<strong>in</strong>g byall <strong>the</strong> zoo associations and animal welfare organisations. Their guidel<strong>in</strong>esrecommend a variety of structural features and furniture that should beprovided <strong>in</strong> outdoor bear enclosures for all species (Appendix V). Although,unlike o<strong>the</strong>r bears, wild polar bears do not climb trees, this does not meanthat <strong>in</strong> a captive situation <strong>the</strong>y would not benefit from <strong>the</strong> opportunity toclimb and explore structures. <strong>Polar</strong> bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild encounter a widevariety of natural structures to climb such as ice ridges, rocky cliffs andmounta<strong>in</strong>sides. 49,19For <strong>in</strong>door accommodation, some of <strong>the</strong> guidel<strong>in</strong>es recommend <strong>the</strong> provisionof platforms raised from <strong>the</strong> ground to provide a more complex environmentand rest<strong>in</strong>g sites. At S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo <strong>the</strong>re are apparently no such features <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door polar bear accommodation.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?56www.acres.org.sg


In <strong>the</strong> 2004 report, Acres recommended add<strong>in</strong>g more furniture to <strong>the</strong>enclosure to make it more complex and <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g for <strong>the</strong> bears. 18 Rootballs, logs and rocks properly placed over a deep natural substrate weresuggested to allow <strong>the</strong> bears to dig beneath <strong>the</strong>m to create rest<strong>in</strong>g or evendenn<strong>in</strong>g places. In addition, it was recommended that <strong>the</strong> root balls and logsshould have <strong>in</strong>tact bark, so <strong>the</strong> bears can chew it or rip it up. It was alsosuggested that <strong>the</strong> bears should be given rotten logs that <strong>the</strong>y can rip apart.No evidence of any of <strong>the</strong>se suggestions be<strong>in</strong>g implemented was apparentdur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> course of this study.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?57www.acres.org.sg


Private areasThe lack of private areas <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> outdoor enclosure means that <strong>the</strong>polar bears are constantly <strong>in</strong> public view.The enclosure does not provide sufficient private areas where <strong>the</strong> bearscan adequately retreat from public view or from each o<strong>the</strong>r.Private areas are extremely important for an animal’s welfare and shouldtake precedence over <strong>the</strong> ability of visitors to constantly view <strong>the</strong> animals.Exhibit<strong>in</strong>g animals <strong>in</strong> a way thatdoes not allow <strong>the</strong>m privacy canresult <strong>in</strong> detrimental physiologicaland behavioural consequences.The presence of visitors has beenshown to have measurable effectson certa<strong>in</strong> aspects of an animal’sphysical state. For example, aLegislation regard<strong>in</strong>g private areas<strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba 11• Any w<strong>in</strong>dow that allows publicview<strong>in</strong>g must be located <strong>in</strong> a positionthat allows <strong>the</strong> polar bear to avoidpublic view<strong>in</strong>g if desired.correlated <strong>in</strong>crease <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> cortisol levels <strong>in</strong> captive animals as <strong>the</strong> number ofvisitors <strong>in</strong>creases has been documented. 75 Cortisol is a hormone known to bereleased dur<strong>in</strong>g times of stress. Be<strong>in</strong>g surrounded by a ‘faceless’ crowd ofunfamiliar and often noisy visitors most likely constitutes a source of stressfor <strong>the</strong> animals. 8What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?58www.acres.org.sg


<strong>Animal</strong>s should also be able to retreat from <strong>the</strong> view of o<strong>the</strong>r animals <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>same enclosure. Less dom<strong>in</strong>ant animals should not only be able to avoidphysical contact with dom<strong>in</strong>ant animals, but should be able to remove<strong>the</strong>mselves visually as well. Visual barriers should be provided for polarbears, as bears are not naturally sociable animals. 13The provision of private areas for bears to retreat from <strong>the</strong> public and cagemates is considered an essential enclosure feature for bears by several of<strong>the</strong> zoo association and animal welfare guidel<strong>in</strong>es (Appendix VI). The <strong>Polar</strong><strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba, states that polar bears must be allowed toavoid public view<strong>in</strong>g if desired.The outdoor enclosure for <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo does not provideany privacy areas where <strong>the</strong> bears can completely retreat from public viewor from view of each o<strong>the</strong>r. When <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> outdoor enclosure and pool, <strong>the</strong>polar bears are unable to completely avoid visual, auditory and olfactoryexposure to visitors, whose numbers may be great.Facilities that impose such <strong>in</strong>evitably stressful conditions must be considered<strong>in</strong>appropriate. As polar bears are by nature solitary animals, <strong>the</strong> ability for<strong>the</strong>m to escape from cage mates should be considered essential. Also, asInuka appears to exert dom<strong>in</strong>ance over Sheba, it is important that sheshould be able to retreat from his view whenever she desires.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?59www.acres.org.sg


5.1.2 Problems <strong>in</strong> husbandryUse/access of <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door areas.The bears spend two thirds of <strong>the</strong>ir lives locked <strong>in</strong> small, dark <strong>in</strong>doorcages with no natural light when <strong>the</strong>y are off exhibit.Provid<strong>in</strong>g captive animals with free access to both <strong>in</strong>door and outdoor areasmay give <strong>the</strong>m more choice and control over <strong>the</strong>ir environment.The <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba, requires that polar bears must beallowed to move freely between <strong>the</strong> exhibit area and <strong>the</strong> off-exhibit area atall times. 11WSPA recommends that bears shall be allowed free movement <strong>in</strong>doors andoutdoors at all times and that polar bears shall have free access to dens atall times. 2The polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo spend approximately two thirds of <strong>the</strong> timelocked <strong>in</strong> <strong>in</strong>door cages which are described as sub-standard by Poulsen(2005). 10 The fact that <strong>the</strong>se cages, which have been described as small,dark and humid, are <strong>the</strong> bears primary residence is obviously a majorwelfare concern.The fact that <strong>the</strong> bears are locked <strong>in</strong>side from between five and six pmevery even<strong>in</strong>g until <strong>the</strong> next morn<strong>in</strong>g is a factor that may be very stressfulfor <strong>the</strong>m as even<strong>in</strong>g/night time are naturally <strong>the</strong> hours of most activity forpolar bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild. If <strong>the</strong>re is no alternative than to lock <strong>the</strong> bears <strong>in</strong> atnight for security reasons, <strong>the</strong>n at <strong>the</strong> very least <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door accommodationshould be of a much higher standard and go fur<strong>the</strong>r towards meet<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>needs of <strong>the</strong> bears as far as possible.In <strong>the</strong> past, <strong>the</strong> polar bears were locked out onto <strong>the</strong> outdoor exhibit dur<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong> day with no <strong>in</strong>door access. In a meet<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> 2004 <strong>the</strong> zoo expla<strong>in</strong>ed that<strong>the</strong> door was sometimes left open dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> day, but this meant that publicwould hardly see <strong>the</strong> bears if <strong>the</strong>y retreated <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> den often.In <strong>the</strong> 2004 report, Acres made <strong>the</strong> recommendation that <strong>the</strong> bears be givenaccess to <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door dens at all hours to provide some relief from <strong>the</strong> heatand humidity. 18 Subsequently, <strong>in</strong> 2005, Acres was <strong>in</strong>formed that <strong>the</strong> polarbears now had access to <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door air-conditioned area dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> day.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?60www.acres.org.sg


Enrichment programmeS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo does not appear to provide a mean<strong>in</strong>gful and sufficientenrichment programme for <strong>the</strong> bears.In <strong>the</strong> wild, polar bears display a compell<strong>in</strong>g curiosity about anyth<strong>in</strong>g thatenters <strong>the</strong>ir environment 20,50 and will manipulate objects and substrates <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong>ir environment. 76,77 This type of behaviour occurs dur<strong>in</strong>g hunt<strong>in</strong>g andforag<strong>in</strong>g rout<strong>in</strong>es and also dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> construction of dens and daybeds. 36Therefore, bears which are denied such behavioural opportunities could beconsidered disadvantaged. 36 It seems likely that polar bears have an <strong>in</strong>tr<strong>in</strong>sicability and motivation to manipulate objects and support for this <strong>the</strong>orycomes from studies which have shown that captive polar bears domanipulate objects regardless of season, sex and age. 36It is <strong>the</strong>refore clear that polar bears are <strong>in</strong>telligent, <strong>in</strong>quisitive animals whoneed constant stimulation. It has been suggested that <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>vestigative andexploratory forag<strong>in</strong>g styles of opportunistic feeders, such as bears, renders<strong>the</strong>m particularly prone to frustration <strong>in</strong> environmentally-impoverishedcaptive environments. 42 The potential of a species for manipulation andobject-related activity appears to be an <strong>in</strong>dicator of behavioural andpsychological needs <strong>in</strong> captivity. 78,79Environmental enrichment is a technique for improv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> environmentand/or enclosures of captive animals by <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir behaviouralopportunities. 80 The aim of environmental enrichment is to provide anenvironment <strong>in</strong> which captive animals behave as closely as possible to <strong>the</strong>irwild counterpart. 81Enrichment may <strong>in</strong>clude furniture, but can also comprise non-fixed itemssuch as logs, branches and scratch<strong>in</strong>g posts. Many animals can also benefitfrom auditory and olfactory stimuli (<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>troduction of new scents andodours has been a successful method of stimulation for several bearspecies. 70 ) Ice snacks consist<strong>in</strong>g of fruits, meats etc. frozen <strong>in</strong> a bucket ofwater have been seen to keep polar bears occupied. 38Environmental enrichment <strong>in</strong>fluences <strong>the</strong> physical, mental and social wellbe<strong>in</strong>gof captive animals, frequently result<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> beneficial effects on overallanimal health. 26 Appropriately planned and implemented environmentalenrichment programmes can contribute to improved animal health throughcreat<strong>in</strong>g opportunities for <strong>the</strong> animal to exert some form of control over itsenvironment. 26Environmental enrichment should be viewed as an <strong>in</strong>tegral part of an active,preventative, veter<strong>in</strong>ary medic<strong>in</strong>e programme 26 and should not beconsidered as an optional feature of wild animal husbandry; it should beregarded as a necessity.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?61www.acres.org.sg


At a workshop on <strong>the</strong> Behavioural Needs of <strong>Bear</strong>s <strong>in</strong> Captivity, held as part of<strong>the</strong> First European Conference on <strong>the</strong> Status, Conservation and Welfare of<strong>Bear</strong>s <strong>in</strong> Captivity <strong>in</strong> 1991, it was stressed that, because of <strong>the</strong> animals’ highlevel of <strong>in</strong>telligence, novel objects and situations that keep <strong>the</strong> bears alertand <strong>the</strong>ir behaviour flexible should be provided. 82 Sensory stimuli, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>golfactory stimulation and a soft environment, were considered a priority. 82The provision of enclosure furniture, natural substrates and varied feed<strong>in</strong>gtechniques as forms of enrichment have been discussed previously. Thissection will deal with <strong>the</strong> concept of an environmental enrichmentprogramme employ<strong>in</strong>g o<strong>the</strong>r behavioural enrichment techniques <strong>in</strong>volv<strong>in</strong>gnon-fixed items and o<strong>the</strong>r stimuli.Enrichment for <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore ZooThe enrichment programme for <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo appears tobe very restricted and of limited benefit to <strong>the</strong> bears. While someenrichment is provided, <strong>the</strong> bears <strong>in</strong>teract with it for only short periods oftime.There were some play objects seen <strong>in</strong>side <strong>the</strong> polar bear enclosure dur<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong> course of <strong>the</strong> study. These objects were rubber vehicle tires, plasticballs tied on a rope, barrels and plastic tubes. Exactly <strong>the</strong> same objectswere observed to be present <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> enclosure on every visit. The objects allappeared to be very worn and were all covered <strong>in</strong> teeth marks. No o<strong>the</strong>revidence of a day-to-day enrichment programme, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> form of provision ofnew objects, was witnessed.The <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba, requires that those establishmentshold<strong>in</strong>g polar bears must establish a written behavioural enrichmentprogramme designed to stimulate and encourage natural behaviour <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>polar bear. 11The guidel<strong>in</strong>es written by zoo associations and animal welfare organisationsall stress <strong>the</strong> importance of behavioural enrichment programmes and givedetailed <strong>in</strong>formation about various enrichment techniques that should beused for bears (Appendix VII). It is frequently emphasized that behaviouralenrichment is only effective if stimuli/objects are frequently changed.The S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo polar bears were seen to have <strong>the</strong> same play objectson every visit. All <strong>the</strong> guidel<strong>in</strong>es stress <strong>the</strong> importance of us<strong>in</strong>g a variety ofobjects and stimuli and strongly recommend us<strong>in</strong>g feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichmenttechniques. The ABWAK and WSPA guidel<strong>in</strong>es recommend that at least tenobjects should be available to polar bears at all times. The S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoopolar bears were seen to have about half this number of objects.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?62www.acres.org.sg


At a meet<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> 2005, <strong>the</strong> zoo said <strong>the</strong>y had been provid<strong>in</strong>g ice blocks for <strong>the</strong>bears as enrichment. However, dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> course of this <strong>in</strong>vestigation, at notime were ice blocks observed be<strong>in</strong>g thrown <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> enclosure or pool.At a meet<strong>in</strong>g 2004, <strong>the</strong> zoo said that frozen whole watermelons were thrown<strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> enclosure as enrichment. Aga<strong>in</strong>, dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> course of <strong>the</strong><strong>in</strong>vestigation, this was never observed.A previous study on behavioural enrichment for <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gaporeZoo revealed that coconuts were manipulated <strong>the</strong> most by <strong>the</strong> bears andplastic conta<strong>in</strong>ers <strong>the</strong> least. 66 The study also revealed that all three polarbears manipulated <strong>the</strong> leaves provided, roll<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong>m and rest<strong>in</strong>g on <strong>the</strong>m.However, dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> course of this study, no coconuts or leaves were seen tobe given to <strong>the</strong> bears, whilst <strong>the</strong> conta<strong>in</strong>ers rema<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> enclosure <strong>the</strong>whole time.In <strong>the</strong> 2004 report, Acres recommended <strong>the</strong> implementation of a day-to-daywhole and varied enrichment programme by offer<strong>in</strong>g a daily range of stimulito stimulate different senses and elicit natural behaviours. 18 Suggestions<strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong>troduc<strong>in</strong>g novel enrichment daily and a list of novel objects thatcould be <strong>in</strong>troduced to encourage exploratory and play behaviour was given.Feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichment by means of provid<strong>in</strong>g novel food, scatter<strong>in</strong>g food <strong>in</strong>piles of twigs and straw, conceal<strong>in</strong>g food <strong>in</strong> ice or objects was alsosuggested. Acres recommended that enrichment material should befrequently changed and offered at unpredictable times of <strong>the</strong> day.For <strong>the</strong> full list of suggestions made by Acres to S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo regard<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>implantation of an enrichment programme refer to Chapter 8.In a 1999 report on enrichment for <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo, it isstated that at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo, polar bears were not considered highpriority for enrichment compared to o<strong>the</strong>r animals. 66 Also, enrichmentprogrammes have allegedly been said to take up too much of <strong>the</strong> keeperstime. 66 The zoo has apparently <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> past been reluctant to <strong>in</strong>corporatesome enrichment suggestions. It has been suggested that <strong>the</strong> environmentalenrichment has been restricted because <strong>the</strong> zoo wants to display animals <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong>ir natural environment, with no artificial materials on display. Prior to<strong>the</strong>ir 1999 <strong>in</strong>vestigation, researchers sent a list of objects that <strong>the</strong>y wantedto try as enrichment items for <strong>the</strong> polar bears to <strong>the</strong> zoo. Apparently <strong>the</strong> zoorejected some of <strong>the</strong> objects because <strong>the</strong>y looked unnatural. 66 However, itis important to keep <strong>in</strong> m<strong>in</strong>d that even though an object might not benatural, it is still capable of elicit<strong>in</strong>g a natural response. 83Most of <strong>the</strong> objects provided for enrichment were badly chewed and Inukawas on one occasion dur<strong>in</strong>g this <strong>in</strong>vestigation seen to actually tear off and<strong>in</strong>gest pieces of rubber from a vehicle tyre. The presence of oldWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?63www.acres.org.sg


dis<strong>in</strong>tegrat<strong>in</strong>g objects <strong>in</strong> an enclosure which can be easily broken <strong>in</strong>to piecesand consumed obviously poses a potential risk to <strong>the</strong> well-be<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong>bears.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?64www.acres.org.sg


Feed<strong>in</strong>g methodsThe feed<strong>in</strong>g methods apparently used by <strong>the</strong> zoo may not be <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> best<strong>in</strong>terests of <strong>the</strong> polar bears.In <strong>the</strong> wild, polar bears are active hunters and forage feeders. They arecont<strong>in</strong>ually search<strong>in</strong>g for opportunities to hunt seals, walruses and to f<strong>in</strong>dsupplementary food sources such as carrion. Some populations are alsoknown to eat berries, eggs and kelp dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> times <strong>the</strong>y <strong>in</strong>habit terrestrialenvironments, such as boreal forest, tundra and coastl<strong>in</strong>e.In a captive situation, it is not practical to provide polar bears with seals orwalruses to hunt. However, <strong>the</strong>re are certa<strong>in</strong> feed<strong>in</strong>g methods that aregenerally recognised to be <strong>the</strong> most beneficial to <strong>the</strong>ir welfare.International bear husbandry standards (e.g., EEP, AZA) emphasize <strong>the</strong>importance of feed<strong>in</strong>g bears at least three times dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> day. 8 In captivesituations it seems that bears benefit if <strong>the</strong>ir food expectations are metpromptly, as early <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> morn<strong>in</strong>g as possible, to alleviate <strong>the</strong> stressassociated with <strong>the</strong> anticipation of food. 36 Random scatter feed<strong>in</strong>g andmodification of feed<strong>in</strong>g techniques may prove beneficial for polar bears. 38Accord<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> zoo keepers at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo, <strong>the</strong> polar bears are fed <strong>the</strong>irma<strong>in</strong> meal <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> even<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>side <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>door cages. This method of feed<strong>in</strong>gone ma<strong>in</strong> meal a day <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> even<strong>in</strong>g may lead to stress, as <strong>the</strong> bears areanticipat<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir food all day. This also constitutes a predictable, dullfeed<strong>in</strong>g rout<strong>in</strong>e. As a result, <strong>the</strong> amount of time spent feed<strong>in</strong>g is likely to beshort, offers few challenges and requires little, if any, forag<strong>in</strong>g effort.The <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba, requires that those keep<strong>in</strong>g polarbears must ensure that <strong>the</strong> regular feed<strong>in</strong>g schedule is supplemented byirregularly timed and located feed<strong>in</strong>gs <strong>in</strong>volv<strong>in</strong>g foods not normally served. 11The recommendations by <strong>the</strong> various zoo associations and animal welfaregroups are <strong>in</strong> general agreement about <strong>the</strong> importance of us<strong>in</strong>g a variety ofmethods of food delivery (Appendix VII). Feed<strong>in</strong>g methods that allow forextensive forag<strong>in</strong>g, natural manipulation, and process<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g scatterfeed<strong>in</strong>g, hid<strong>in</strong>g food and bury<strong>in</strong>g food <strong>in</strong> soft substrates are widelyrecommended. Some of <strong>the</strong> guidel<strong>in</strong>es suggest giv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> bears some of <strong>the</strong>irfood at irregular times of <strong>the</strong> day. The UFAW and WSPA guidel<strong>in</strong>es bothrecommend feed<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> ma<strong>in</strong> meal early <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> morn<strong>in</strong>g. Some guidel<strong>in</strong>essuggest that polar bears benefit from food that floats.Dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> course of this study <strong>the</strong>re was little evidence of any scatterfeed<strong>in</strong>g or any o<strong>the</strong>r type of feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichment methods be<strong>in</strong>g employed <strong>in</strong><strong>the</strong> outdoor enclosure. There did not appear to be anywhere <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> outdoorenclosure where food could be hidden or buried to make feed<strong>in</strong>g times moreWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?65www.acres.org.sg


<strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g. At no time were <strong>the</strong> bears seen to be forag<strong>in</strong>g for food and <strong>the</strong>floor of <strong>the</strong> enclosure was always clean suggest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> absence of anyscatter feed<strong>in</strong>g and <strong>in</strong>dicat<strong>in</strong>g that food is not available adlib. No feed<strong>in</strong>genrichment devices were apparent <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> outdoor enclosure.The token feed<strong>in</strong>gs occur at <strong>the</strong> same time each day. Dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> studyperiod, <strong>the</strong> food provided consisted of small, uniform chunks of meat, ordead fish, always of approximately <strong>the</strong> same size. The items fed to <strong>the</strong> bearsdur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> token feed<strong>in</strong>gs were usually eaten with<strong>in</strong> a few seconds. Live fishwere also thrown <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> pool for <strong>the</strong> bears (usually Inuka) to catch. Thebears often did not even try to catch <strong>the</strong> fish, <strong>in</strong>dicat<strong>in</strong>g that <strong>the</strong> noveltyvalue of this practice has already worn off. Research has proven thatfeed<strong>in</strong>gs, performances or shows that take place at exactly <strong>the</strong> same timeevery day lead to <strong>the</strong> development of stereotypic behaviour. 10 While <strong>the</strong>feed<strong>in</strong>g of live fish may be considered as enrichment by <strong>the</strong> zoo, <strong>the</strong> factthat it is provided at <strong>the</strong> same time each day means that it has become arout<strong>in</strong>e for <strong>the</strong> bears, ra<strong>the</strong>r than an enrichment.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?66www.acres.org.sg


5.2 Physical signs of stress5.2.1 M<strong>in</strong>imal lean body mass 10Healthy polar bears carry hundreds of pounds of fat firmly attached to <strong>the</strong>muscle tissue. However, both Sheba and Inuka exhibit m<strong>in</strong>imal lean bodymass (L.B.M.) i.e. are lack<strong>in</strong>g muscle, which is a problem <strong>in</strong> captivity forboth males and females. Inuka does not have <strong>the</strong> muscle build up that herequires for his age and his size, probably as a direct result of lack ofexercise and <strong>in</strong>appropriate diet. In <strong>the</strong> wild, healthy adult male polar bearsdo not have visible necks due to a massive build up of muscle tissue from<strong>the</strong>ir shoulders to <strong>the</strong> base of <strong>the</strong>ir heads. In males L.B.M. can be diagnosedby <strong>the</strong> obvious appearance of <strong>the</strong> neck, which is observed <strong>in</strong> Inuka. When afemale polar bear with <strong>in</strong>sufficient L.B.M. stands up all of her fat falls downto her hips and she takes on <strong>the</strong> classic ‘pear shape’ and can be described asa “pear bear”. Sheba has m<strong>in</strong>imal L.B.M. and fits this description and can be<strong>the</strong>refore be described as a “pear bear”.5.2.2 Fur loss 10Both bears have ahistory of repeatedsevere fur loss. Over<strong>the</strong> period of thisstudy, both Shebaand Inuka were seento have large baldpatches over <strong>the</strong>irbodies. Sheba wasalso observed tohave some k<strong>in</strong>d ofsk<strong>in</strong> rash on herback, with miss<strong>in</strong>gfur and sores.Previous studies andobservations havealso reported severefur loss for bothbears. In February2005, Inuka hadSheba show<strong>in</strong>g signs of severe fur lossreportedly lost all of his guard hairs which is not a natural state as at notime dur<strong>in</strong>g a normal moult does a polar bear lose all of its guard hairs atone time; <strong>the</strong> normal moult is a gradual process. Severe fur loss is mostoften stress-related and long-term stress probably plays a role <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> fur lossfor both Sheba and Inuka.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?67www.acres.org.sg


5.2.3 Condition of teeth 10Sheba has significant deterioration of her teeth and has lost three of herfour can<strong>in</strong>es. Accord<strong>in</strong>g to Poulsen (2005), <strong>in</strong> a captive bear such dentaldeterioration signifies <strong>in</strong>appropriate diet, presentation and long-term dentalcare.5.3 ConclusionThere are substantial enclosure design and husbandry problems at S<strong>in</strong>gaporeZoo that severely compromise <strong>the</strong> welfare of <strong>the</strong> polar bears. S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoofails to satisfy a number of key criteria identified <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> husbandry standardsstated <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong> Protection Act, Manitoba.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?68www.acres.org.sg


CHAPTER 6ANALYSIS OF THE EDUCATIONAL BENEFIT6.1 Educational value of captive polar bears <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gaporeA survey of over two hundred visitors carried out by Acres at <strong>the</strong> polar bearexhibit <strong>in</strong> March 2006 revealed that only 20.6% of <strong>the</strong> visitors read any of <strong>the</strong><strong>in</strong>formation signs. Most only looked at one or two signs for a few secondsand no visitors were seen to read all <strong>the</strong> signs.The time that adult visitors spent look<strong>in</strong>g at <strong>the</strong> polar bears was alsoexam<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> a survey of more than 200 visitors dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> same period. Theaverage time adult visitors spent look<strong>in</strong>g at <strong>the</strong> polar bears was found tobe only 46.3 seconds.6.1.1 The polar bear token feed<strong>in</strong>g showsInuka r<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g a bell for food.S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo appears to pride itself on <strong>the</strong> “educational value” of itsanimal shows. Ms Fanny Lai, Executive Director of S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo and NightSafari, <strong>in</strong> a news release regard<strong>in</strong>g animal shows <strong>in</strong> August 2005 stated“Studies have shown that watch<strong>in</strong>g a live animal show where animals areWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?69www.acres.org.sg


demonstrat<strong>in</strong>g species-appropriate behaviour can leave a last<strong>in</strong>g impression<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> m<strong>in</strong>ds of zoo visitors”. 84 In <strong>the</strong> “wonders of <strong>the</strong> wild” show, each“performance” is said to “highlight <strong>the</strong> animals’ natural behaviour <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>wild”. 84On <strong>the</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo website, <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>g statement is made: “At <strong>the</strong>S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo we believe <strong>in</strong> ma<strong>in</strong>ta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g our animals’ natural <strong>in</strong>st<strong>in</strong>cts andbehaviours through activities. Such activities help to deepen ourunderstand<strong>in</strong>g towards <strong>the</strong>m and even participate <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wonders of <strong>the</strong>irways!” 85However, this l<strong>in</strong>e of th<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g apparently does not extend to <strong>the</strong> polar bearshows <strong>in</strong> which <strong>the</strong> polar bears perform several unnatural behaviours thatare totally <strong>in</strong>appropriate for <strong>the</strong> species.The polar bears are used <strong>in</strong> “token feed<strong>in</strong>g” shows for <strong>the</strong> public three timesa day from Monday to Saturday and four times a day on Sundays and publicholidays. As documented as late as March 2006, dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>se shows bothInuka and Sheba are repeatedly required to demonstrate unnaturalbehaviours for <strong>the</strong> reward of a piece of food. Sheba is asked to “wave” to<strong>the</strong> audience with her paws. Inuka is encouraged to splash around <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>water- a behaviour which is expla<strong>in</strong>ed as be<strong>in</strong>g “his version of a bellydance”. Inuka is also told to stand on his h<strong>in</strong>d legs on a boulder and r<strong>in</strong>g abell suspended on a rope above <strong>the</strong> enclosure. After this he proceeds to hithis paws toge<strong>the</strong>r at which po<strong>in</strong>t <strong>the</strong> presenter claims that he is “ask<strong>in</strong>g fora round of applause”.The educational benefit of watch<strong>in</strong>g a polar bear wav<strong>in</strong>g, r<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g a bell,clapp<strong>in</strong>g his paws toge<strong>the</strong>r or ‘belly danc<strong>in</strong>g’ is obviously highlyquestionable. Mak<strong>in</strong>g animals perform <strong>the</strong>se unnatural tricks, purely for <strong>the</strong>enterta<strong>in</strong>ment of <strong>the</strong> audience, teaches noth<strong>in</strong>g about <strong>the</strong> natural behaviourof polar bears; it simply re<strong>in</strong>forces <strong>the</strong> outdated idea that animals existpurely for human enterta<strong>in</strong>ment. Children may well go away from <strong>the</strong> showth<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g that wild polar bears ‘belly dance’, wave hello and clap <strong>the</strong>ir paws.The polar bears are given live fish to demonstrate <strong>the</strong>ir hunt<strong>in</strong>g skills as partof <strong>the</strong> show. Whilst this may confer some benefit to <strong>the</strong> polar bears byserv<strong>in</strong>g as a brief distraction from <strong>the</strong>ir mundane lives, aga<strong>in</strong> thisdemonstration is of limited value <strong>in</strong> terms of teach<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> audience aboutpolar bear behaviour <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild. <strong>Polar</strong> bears are powerful hunters, and relyon <strong>the</strong>ir stealth when hunt<strong>in</strong>g on land for <strong>the</strong> seals and walruses which makeup <strong>the</strong> bulk of <strong>the</strong>ir diet. A wild polar bear’s diet consists of n<strong>in</strong>ety five percent mar<strong>in</strong>e mammals 47 and wild polar bears only very rarely hunt and eatfish.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?70www.acres.org.sg


6.1.2 Information signsThere are some signs located <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> vic<strong>in</strong>ity of <strong>the</strong> polar bear view<strong>in</strong>g areadisplay<strong>in</strong>g brief snippets of <strong>in</strong>formation about polar bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild andgiv<strong>in</strong>g some basic polar bear facts and figures. There are also signs withmore detailed <strong>in</strong>formation about <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo.The educational value of this exhibit is negligible. For <strong>the</strong> most part, visitorsignored <strong>the</strong> signboard <strong>in</strong>formation and spent only a very short time at <strong>the</strong>exhibit. A large majority of people seemed to arrive at <strong>the</strong> exhibit only for<strong>the</strong> purpose of watch<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> show and left immediately once it was over,without read<strong>in</strong>g any of <strong>the</strong> signs. Therefore, <strong>the</strong> only message that <strong>the</strong>y takeaway with <strong>the</strong>m is what <strong>the</strong>y have seen <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> show, which, as expla<strong>in</strong>edpreviously, is questionable and may be counter-educational because itprovides mislead<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong>formation about polar bear behaviour.6.2 ConclusionIt is doubtful that <strong>the</strong>re is any legitimate educational benefit to hav<strong>in</strong>g polarbears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo. The fact that <strong>the</strong> bears are displayed <strong>in</strong> an entirelyartificial context, <strong>the</strong> short amount of time visitors spend at <strong>the</strong> enclosure(46.3 seconds), <strong>the</strong>ir limited <strong>in</strong>terest <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> signs and <strong>the</strong> distorted messages<strong>the</strong>y receive through watch<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> bear’s unnatural tricks comb<strong>in</strong>e to make<strong>the</strong> exhibit educationally counterproductive.Acres urges S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo to end <strong>the</strong> display of unnatural tricks dur<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>token feed<strong>in</strong>g sessions.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?71www.acres.org.sg


What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?72www.acres.org.sg


CHAPTER 7GLOBAL PROGRESSIVE MOVEMENT7.1 The phas<strong>in</strong>g out of polar bears <strong>in</strong> captivityBecause of <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>nate difficulties of provid<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> spacious and stimulat<strong>in</strong>genvironment required by captive bears, many zoos, <strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g those <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>United K<strong>in</strong>gdom, no longer hold bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir collections or have decidednot to replace current stock after <strong>the</strong> bears die. 86 This situation is perhapsmost apparent <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> case of polar bears.<strong>Polar</strong> bears are one of <strong>the</strong> species for which <strong>the</strong> effects of captivity havebeen studied <strong>in</strong> detail. 36,37,38 The results of such studies have highlighted <strong>the</strong>ubiquitous <strong>in</strong>cidence of abnormal behaviour for polar bears <strong>in</strong> captivity andhighlighted <strong>the</strong> immense difficulties <strong>in</strong> meet<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> needs of this species <strong>in</strong> acaptive environment.Even at progressive, professionally-managed zoos, <strong>the</strong>re rema<strong>in</strong> severeproblems with polar bears display<strong>in</strong>g abnormal behaviours. Regardless ofwhe<strong>the</strong>r or not enclosures fulfil <strong>the</strong> various recommendations for polarbears, stereotypic and abnormal behaviours still prevail. 38 In a study of polarbear behaviour <strong>in</strong> British zoos, it was found that <strong>the</strong> design or size ofenclosures did not have any significant <strong>in</strong>fluence on <strong>in</strong>cidences ofstereotypic behaviour. 38 Even for <strong>the</strong> bears liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> largest enclosure <strong>in</strong>this study, four different stereotypic behaviours and apa<strong>the</strong>tic behaviourwere recorded. In ano<strong>the</strong>r large enclosure which followed <strong>the</strong> layoutsuggested as be<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> most suitable for polar bears (level, with raised areasand conta<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g few rocks), <strong>the</strong> stereotypic behaviours observed were asextreme as anywhere else. 38 These observations strongly <strong>in</strong>dicate that, forpolar bears, simply chang<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> layout/design and <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> size ofenclosure is still not enough to eradicate or even limit <strong>the</strong> occurrence ofabnormal behaviours.The question <strong>the</strong>refore rema<strong>in</strong>s; will <strong>the</strong>re ever be an enclosure adequateenough to prevent or elim<strong>in</strong>ate stereotypic behaviour <strong>in</strong> polar bears? Anevaluation of all of <strong>the</strong> evidence leads to a resound<strong>in</strong>g no. Certa<strong>in</strong>ly at thispo<strong>in</strong>t <strong>in</strong> time no one has come close to design<strong>in</strong>g an enclosure that meets<strong>the</strong> needs of polar bears and, because of <strong>the</strong> nature of this species, it isdoubtful that anyone ever will.Zoos <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> United K<strong>in</strong>gdom have been phas<strong>in</strong>g out <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of polarbears <strong>in</strong> recent years. S<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> 1990s, six zoos <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> United K<strong>in</strong>gdom havestopped keep<strong>in</strong>g polar bears.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?73www.acres.org.sg


Today <strong>the</strong>re is just one polar bear still be<strong>in</strong>g held <strong>in</strong> captivity <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> UnitedK<strong>in</strong>gdom at Ed<strong>in</strong>burgh Zoo, and <strong>the</strong> public pressure on <strong>the</strong> zoo not to acquireany more polar bears once she dies is immense.With regard to <strong>the</strong> trend towards phas<strong>in</strong>g out <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of bears <strong>in</strong> zoos,<strong>the</strong> Chief Curator at Chester Zoo, <strong>the</strong> United K<strong>in</strong>gdom’s largest zoologicalgarden has stated, “…if we cannot provide for <strong>the</strong> environmentalrequirements of any animal properly we should not keep <strong>the</strong>m. Historically,a number of bear species were kept here but s<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> last aged femalepolar bear died here <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> early 1990s we have not felt it appropriate toreplace her…In summary, historically bears have had a ‘poor deal’,somewhat masked by <strong>the</strong>ir [physical] resilience.” 70 Similarly, <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>gresponse was given by Chester Zoo when questioned on <strong>the</strong> absence of polarbears at <strong>the</strong> zoo: “Our last two polar bears were Amos who died <strong>in</strong> 1989leav<strong>in</strong>g Sabr<strong>in</strong>a who unfortunately died of a tumour <strong>in</strong> 1992. A decision wastaken at that time, not to keep <strong>Polar</strong> <strong>Bear</strong>s <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> collection any more as itis very difficult to provide <strong>the</strong> right k<strong>in</strong>d of conditions for <strong>the</strong> typeof environment <strong>the</strong>y require and, <strong>the</strong>y are no longer a highly endangeredspecies.” (Email correspondence, 27 January, 2006).The situation is much <strong>the</strong> same for zoos <strong>in</strong> Switzerland. Until a few yearsago, Basel Zoo and Zurich zoo were <strong>the</strong> only two zoos <strong>in</strong> Switzerland stillkeep<strong>in</strong>g polar bears. Both zoos have now come to <strong>the</strong> conclusion that, <strong>in</strong>pr<strong>in</strong>ciple, polar bears should not be kept under <strong>the</strong> conditions <strong>the</strong> zoos canoffer at present. 87 As <strong>the</strong> zoos cannot at present build large new exhibitsthat meet <strong>the</strong> requirements of <strong>the</strong> species, <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of polar bears hasbeen phased out. 2Similar enlightenment is also found <strong>in</strong> Germany, where zoos are phas<strong>in</strong>g out<strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of not only polar bears, but also o<strong>the</strong>r bear species. 2In 1993, <strong>the</strong> Universities Federation for <strong>Animal</strong> Welfare (UFAW) published areport based on behavioural studies of polar bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> United K<strong>in</strong>gdomentitled “The behaviour of captive polar bears”. 36 Subsequently, UFAWmade <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>g statements and recommendations about <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g ofpolar bears <strong>in</strong> captivity:• Zoos have <strong>the</strong> responsibility to improve <strong>the</strong> environments <strong>in</strong> which <strong>the</strong>polar bears are kept accord<strong>in</strong>g to UFAW recommendations.• Where conditions are so poor that improvements are impracticable <strong>the</strong>animals should be found new homes or as a last resort humanely putdown.• In <strong>the</strong> absence of suitable environments polar bears should not bebred.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?74www.acres.org.sg


• The keep<strong>in</strong>g of polar bears should be phased out as <strong>the</strong> presentcaptive population decl<strong>in</strong>es.• Until a suitable environment can be built that meets all <strong>the</strong> bears’behavioural needs UFAW cannot recommend that polar bears shouldbe kept <strong>in</strong> zoos.It is not just animal welfare bodies and <strong>the</strong> zoos <strong>the</strong>mselves that areexpress<strong>in</strong>g reservations about <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of bears <strong>in</strong> zoos. The bear TaxonAdvisory Group (TAG) of <strong>the</strong> European Endangered Species Program (EEP)holds <strong>the</strong> op<strong>in</strong>ion that “ Zoos should not consider design<strong>in</strong>g enclosures forbears unless <strong>the</strong>y can meet all <strong>the</strong>ir behavioural needs…[If a large andnatural enclosure is not feasible] <strong>the</strong>n serious questions have to be asked asto whe<strong>the</strong>r a smaller enclosure is suitable and precisely what <strong>the</strong> groundsmay be for <strong>the</strong> reduction <strong>in</strong> welfare <strong>in</strong>evitable <strong>in</strong> a restricted place…<strong>the</strong>fewer <strong>the</strong> natural elements (trees, ground vegetation, hills, rocks, creeks orlakes), which provide <strong>the</strong> special activity areas, <strong>in</strong> an enclosure, <strong>the</strong> moredifficult it becomes to and <strong>the</strong> more carefully it must be planned anddesigned to allow for a range of normal behaviours…<strong>the</strong> more options, withregards to substrates, vegetation and structures, that we can offer <strong>the</strong>animals, <strong>the</strong> greater <strong>the</strong> likelihood that we shall be able to meet <strong>the</strong>irdemands.” 17Clearly <strong>the</strong>n, as knowledge about <strong>the</strong> detrimental effects of captivity on <strong>the</strong>well-be<strong>in</strong>g of polar bears <strong>in</strong>creases along with awareness of <strong>the</strong> immensedifficulties <strong>in</strong> fulfill<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir needs, progressive zoos are choos<strong>in</strong>g to stopkeep<strong>in</strong>g this species on welfare grounds. Public enlightenment and concernhave no doubt also played a key role <strong>in</strong> br<strong>in</strong>g<strong>in</strong>g about <strong>the</strong>se changes.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?75www.acres.org.sg


What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?76www.acres.org.sg


CHAPTER 8RECOMMENDATIONSS<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo polar bears cannot be released <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> wild, <strong>the</strong>yshould be moved to more appropriate accommodation elsewhere.Until <strong>the</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo polar bears are moved, <strong>the</strong> zoo should make everyeffort possible to improve <strong>the</strong>ir liv<strong>in</strong>g conditions, so <strong>the</strong> bears can, at <strong>the</strong>very least, express some of <strong>the</strong>ir natural behavioural repertoire. The zooshould also implement measures to try to mitigate <strong>the</strong> physical effects of<strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>appropriate climatic conditions <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore as far as possible.S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo should immediately end <strong>the</strong> display of unnatural tricks dur<strong>in</strong>g<strong>the</strong> token feed<strong>in</strong>g.Below are recommendations for short-term improvements to <strong>the</strong> polar bearenclosure and husbandry techniques. These recommendations will onlyreduce <strong>the</strong> amount of abnormal behaviours and <strong>in</strong>activity but probablynot completely elim<strong>in</strong>ate <strong>the</strong>m. These recommendations are based largelyon <strong>the</strong> EEP Ursid Husbandry Guidel<strong>in</strong>es by <strong>the</strong> European Association of Zoosand Aquaria. Perhaps <strong>the</strong> most important short-term improvement isprovid<strong>in</strong>g a variety of enrichment and this is touched on <strong>in</strong> greater detail.8.1 Short-term recommendations1. Provid<strong>in</strong>g an area where <strong>the</strong> bears can construct day bedsWhen rest<strong>in</strong>g, bears use day beds on <strong>the</strong> ground. These beds may benatural depressions or may be constructed by <strong>the</strong> bears, who scratchaway vegetation and soil to create a shallow depression or pit.2. Provid<strong>in</strong>g soft substratesNatural ground vegetation is <strong>the</strong> best substrate for all bear species as itallows <strong>the</strong>m to scratch, dig and construct pits and holes for rest<strong>in</strong>g. Foodcan also be scattered over <strong>the</strong> substrate or buried <strong>in</strong> it for <strong>the</strong> bears tof<strong>in</strong>d.In addition, areas covered with materials of different physical properties<strong>in</strong> shady and sunny places will create diversity so that <strong>the</strong> bears canselect day beds appropriate to different wea<strong>the</strong>r conditions.An area bordered by wooden logs can also be filled with soil (10-20cm) <strong>in</strong>which a grass herb/mixture can be sown. This is possible even <strong>in</strong>extremely small enclosures of 200 square metres; <strong>the</strong> area may need tobe regularly re-seeded.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?77www.acres.org.sg


Provid<strong>in</strong>g natural substrates <strong>in</strong> enclosures that feature a pool may beproblematic as <strong>the</strong> bears may track a great deal of substrate material<strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> pool. However, a concrete lip can be constructed around <strong>the</strong>pool to prevent substrate materials from be<strong>in</strong>g tracked <strong>in</strong>to it. Aneffective filter system can also help to negate this problem.3. Lower<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> temperature <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> enclosureThe enclosure should be air-conditioned as soon as possible.The water <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> pool should be cooled fur<strong>the</strong>r, so <strong>the</strong> bears can obta<strong>in</strong>even greater relief from <strong>the</strong> heat.4. Provid<strong>in</strong>g more furnitureEven though <strong>the</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo polar bear enclosure is exceptionallysmall, additional furniture should be added to make it more complex and<strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> bears. Root balls, logs and rocks properly placed over adeep natural substrate may allow <strong>the</strong> bears to dig beneath <strong>the</strong>m tocreate rest<strong>in</strong>g or even denn<strong>in</strong>g places. However, <strong>the</strong> construction has tobe worked out <strong>in</strong> such a way that despite digg<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>the</strong> system will notcollapse and bury <strong>the</strong> bear.In addition, <strong>the</strong> root balls and logs should have <strong>in</strong>tact bark, so <strong>the</strong> bearscan chew or rip it off. Ideally, <strong>the</strong>re should also be rotten logs that <strong>the</strong>ycan rip apart.5. Provid<strong>in</strong>g enrichmentEnvironmental enrichment aims to stimulate a wide range of speciesspecificbehaviours, which are performed <strong>in</strong> normal sequences andfrequencies.There are two approaches to enrich<strong>in</strong>g an animal’s environment. Both arenecessary to achieve positive results.• Includ<strong>in</strong>g with<strong>in</strong> enclosures, facilities which enable <strong>the</strong> animals toundertake a wide range of natural activities by provid<strong>in</strong>g a variety ofappropriate natural materials, structures and substrates.• Day-to-day enrichment by offer<strong>in</strong>g a daily range of stimuli, whichstimulate different senses and elicit natural behaviours.The first approach is static, changes will occur only occasionally.Complex topography, vegetation <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> form of trees, bushes and groundflora toge<strong>the</strong>r with artificial constructions and <strong>the</strong> provision of a varietyof substrates will form <strong>in</strong>tegral parts of new enclosures from <strong>the</strong> verybeg<strong>in</strong>n<strong>in</strong>g. Even old enclosures can be modified so that <strong>the</strong>y are morecomplex and <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g, by add<strong>in</strong>g new substrates, vegetation andWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?78www.acres.org.sg


furniture which will facilitate <strong>the</strong> applications and enhance <strong>the</strong> effects of<strong>the</strong> second method of dynamic day-to-day enrichment.Some novel enrichment should be <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> daily husbandry. This willensure that <strong>the</strong> environment is stimulat<strong>in</strong>g, provided <strong>the</strong> enrichmentmaterials are frequently changed and offered at unpredictable times of<strong>the</strong> day.Feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichment is particularly valuable because it stimulates all <strong>the</strong>animals’ senses and elicits exploration and manipulation. It can also<strong>in</strong>crease <strong>the</strong> amount of time spent forag<strong>in</strong>g.Provid<strong>in</strong>g novel food as enrichment <strong>in</strong>fluences <strong>the</strong> level of activityimmediately after its <strong>in</strong>troduction, but <strong>the</strong>re is no long-term effect over<strong>the</strong> day. Scatter<strong>in</strong>g food <strong>in</strong> piles of twigs or straw and hid<strong>in</strong>g it <strong>in</strong>sideobjects, however, extends periods of forag<strong>in</strong>g, <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g behaviouraldiversity. Feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichment will require greater <strong>in</strong>genuity <strong>in</strong> very small,poorly equipped enclosures, so techniques such as conceal<strong>in</strong>g food <strong>in</strong> iceor <strong>in</strong>side objects may help to solve <strong>the</strong> problem.Feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichment reduces walk<strong>in</strong>g and pac<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> favour ofmanipulation, forag<strong>in</strong>g and exploration, as stereotypic behaviour iscommonly l<strong>in</strong>ked to feed<strong>in</strong>g behaviour.Prolong<strong>in</strong>g forag<strong>in</strong>g and feed<strong>in</strong>g behaviour:• Ice blocks with food <strong>in</strong> different sized buckets without handles.• Ice blocks with food <strong>in</strong> large tubs.• Fish or nuts <strong>in</strong> a plastic can with small open<strong>in</strong>gs.• Whole cucumbers or melons.• Branches.• Honey, ketchup or mayonnaise smeared <strong>in</strong> or on traffic cones orbuckets.• Hides and bones of cattle or horses.• Food which float, such as nuts or apples, should be occasionallyscattered <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> water.Encourag<strong>in</strong>g exploratory and play behaviour:Every new object, irrespective of <strong>the</strong> material of its construction,stimulates exploratory and play behaviour.• Large plastic cans, tubs, pipes and traffic cones.• Wooden logs, branches and twigs.• Ropes.• Large <strong>in</strong>destructible balls, such as “boomer balls”.• Large fish<strong>in</strong>g floats.• Empty rope reels.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?79www.acres.org.sg


Stimulat<strong>in</strong>g olfactory and rubb<strong>in</strong>g behaviour:• Different flavours (from drugstores or perfumeries) on <strong>the</strong> groundand on elevated structures to elicit sniff<strong>in</strong>g behaviour.• Hides for roll<strong>in</strong>g and rubb<strong>in</strong>g.• Res<strong>in</strong> or spruce-needle oil on tree trunks and <strong>the</strong> ground elicitsrubb<strong>in</strong>g.• Scent trails sometimes lead<strong>in</strong>g to concealed food items.6. Start<strong>in</strong>g an enrichment programmeThe ideas and practical suggestions made above should be applied <strong>in</strong> sucha manner as to provide <strong>the</strong> bears with options for a sufficient variety ofactivities to enable <strong>the</strong>m to carry out a broader range of naturalbehaviours. While many of <strong>the</strong> activities will, by necessity, be quitedifferent from those experienced by bears <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> wild, <strong>the</strong> dailyprogramme should aim to keep <strong>the</strong> animals occupied as much as possible.Thus it should aim to provide <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>dividual bear with:• Security from disturbance or harassment, <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> form of nest<strong>in</strong>gsites and means of avoid<strong>in</strong>g threats from conspecifics; a goodrelationship with familiar, friendly keepers (of <strong>the</strong> utmostimportance if <strong>the</strong> animal is to feel relaxed and safe).• An environment which provides <strong>the</strong> k<strong>in</strong>d of complexity(environmental diversity) to which <strong>the</strong> animal is naturally adapted,<strong>in</strong>clud<strong>in</strong>g such features as soft ground nest<strong>in</strong>g sites for polar bears.• Opportunities for <strong>the</strong> animals to achieve simple goals with a reward,such as retriev<strong>in</strong>g food from concealed pipes. This is often referredto as “control of <strong>the</strong> environment”. Given appropriate facilities,bears may create <strong>the</strong>ir own goals <strong>in</strong> play, for example, polar bearshave <strong>in</strong>vented games <strong>in</strong>volv<strong>in</strong>g stalk<strong>in</strong>g and pounc<strong>in</strong>g on trafficcones, or bounc<strong>in</strong>g a ball off a wall.• Unpredictability <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> form of variations <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> diet, novel objects,tra<strong>in</strong><strong>in</strong>g to new tasks, novel arrangements of exist<strong>in</strong>g materials.It must be emphasized that environmental enrichment is more thanplac<strong>in</strong>g a toy <strong>in</strong> a cage: it is a whole and varied programme designed togive animals variety and choice.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?80www.acres.org.sg


8.2 Long-term recommendationsS<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> polar bears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo cannot be released to <strong>the</strong> wild, <strong>the</strong>yshould be moved to more appropriate accommodation elsewhere. However,as <strong>the</strong>re are concerns as to whe<strong>the</strong>r Sheba would survive a relocation (dueto her age), Acres recommends that only Inuka be relocated once Shebapasses away.S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo can clearly afford this s<strong>in</strong>ce for <strong>the</strong> f<strong>in</strong>ancial year of2004/2005, Wildlife Reserves S<strong>in</strong>gapore had a surplus of thirteen milliondollars.While locat<strong>in</strong>g a suitable facility for Inuka <strong>in</strong> a more appropriate climate,Acres urges S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo to ensure that any potential recipient <strong>in</strong>stitutionbe equipped with a large naturalistic bear paddock(s) that meets <strong>the</strong> variousguidel<strong>in</strong>es (<strong>in</strong> Appendices) outl<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> this report as far as possible.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?81www.acres.org.sg


What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?82www.acres.org.sg


CHAPTER 9CONCLUSION<strong>Polar</strong> bears are poor candidates for captivity, even <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> best ofcircumstances. They are extremely wide-rang<strong>in</strong>g, highly <strong>in</strong>telligent, coldwea<strong>the</strong>r carnivores, so <strong>the</strong>y are highly problematic to house and care for <strong>in</strong>captivity. In fact, many experts believe <strong>the</strong>y are one of <strong>the</strong> species most illsuitedto captivity. This belief has already resulted <strong>in</strong> a reduction <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong>number of captive polar bears <strong>in</strong> some regions (e.g. United K<strong>in</strong>gdom) and<strong>in</strong>creased criticism of <strong>the</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g of polar bears worldwide.This report reaffirms <strong>the</strong> <strong>in</strong>herent difficulties <strong>in</strong> keep<strong>in</strong>g polar bears withoutcompromis<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong>ir welfare. The report also clearly shows that <strong>the</strong> polarbears at S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo are liv<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> suboptimal conditions. Based on <strong>the</strong>scientific studies conducted, both bears are show<strong>in</strong>g signs of heat stress andhigh levels of <strong>in</strong>activity and abnormal stereotypic behaviours.These welfare problems can be attributed to both <strong>the</strong> climate <strong>in</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gaporeand <strong>the</strong> enclosure <strong>the</strong> bears live <strong>in</strong>. The polar bear enclosure at S<strong>in</strong>gaporeZoo is undersized, barren, poorly designed and does little to satisfy <strong>the</strong>biological and behavioural needs of <strong>the</strong> bears. The enclosure only provides0.0000005 per cent of <strong>the</strong> polar bear’s natural home range.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?83www.acres.org.sg


S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo states that <strong>the</strong>y are “always <strong>in</strong>creas<strong>in</strong>g our level of standardswith chang<strong>in</strong>g times and are not easily satisfied with status quo”. It is timefor <strong>the</strong> zoo to recognise that polar bears should not be <strong>in</strong> captivity <strong>in</strong>tropical S<strong>in</strong>gapore.S<strong>in</strong>ce <strong>the</strong> S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo polar bears cannot be released <strong>in</strong>to <strong>the</strong> wild, <strong>the</strong>yshould be moved to more appropriate accommodation elsewhere. As <strong>the</strong>reare concerns as to whe<strong>the</strong>r or not Sheba, <strong>the</strong> twenty-seven year old femalepolar bear will survive <strong>the</strong> relocation, Acres is recommend<strong>in</strong>g that Inuka, <strong>the</strong>younger polar bear, be relocated once Sheba passes away.Acres does not support <strong>the</strong> construction of a new enclosure for <strong>the</strong>S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo polar bears. It is not possible to construct an exhibit <strong>in</strong>S<strong>in</strong>gapore that can accommodate polar bears <strong>in</strong> a way that satisfies <strong>the</strong>irbiological and behavioural needs and that can completely mitigate aga<strong>in</strong>st<strong>the</strong> deleterious effects of S<strong>in</strong>gapore’s tropical climate.Until Inuka is moved, Acres urges S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo to implement <strong>the</strong>recommendations conta<strong>in</strong>ed <strong>in</strong> this report to improve <strong>the</strong> liv<strong>in</strong>g conditions of<strong>the</strong> bears. Acres would be glad to assist S<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo <strong>in</strong> this aspect.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?84www.acres.org.sg


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82. Poole, T. 1994. Workshop 4: Behavioural Needs of <strong>Bear</strong>s <strong>in</strong> Captivity. InO’Grady, R.J.P. and Hughes, D.G. (Eds) <strong>Bear</strong>s: Their Status, Conservation andWelfare <strong>in</strong> Captivity, Conference Proceed<strong>in</strong>gs. A Selection of papers from aConference held at Glasgow Zoo, Scotland.83. Wells, M. 1995. Challenges. The shape of enrichment. Vol 4 (3), p13-14.84. Wildlife Reserves S<strong>in</strong>gapore. August 16, 2005. News release: New show atS<strong>in</strong>gapore Zoo to fur<strong>the</strong>r promote conservation awareness.http://www.zoo.com.sg/about/NEWS/news16082005a.htm (accessed March 12006).85. S<strong>in</strong>gapore zoo. www.zoo.com.sg/visitor/showtimes.htm (accessed March 12006).86. Irven, P.M. 1993. The decl<strong>in</strong>e of bears <strong>in</strong> British zoos. International Zoo News245, Vol. 40/4, 25-28.87. Doll<strong>in</strong>ger, P., Baumgarten, R., Pagan, O. and Wechsler, B. 1996. Husbandryand pathology of polar bears (Thalarctos maritimus) <strong>in</strong> Swiss zoos. EuropeanAssociation of Zoo and Wildlife Veter<strong>in</strong>arians (EAZWV). First Scientificmeet<strong>in</strong>g, May 16-18, Rostock, Germany.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?89www.acres.org.sg


APPENDIX I: GUIDELINES FOR ENCLOSURE SIZEWSPAM<strong>in</strong>imum size of enclosures for polar bears:• M<strong>in</strong>imum surface area per pair outdoors = 4,500m²• M<strong>in</strong>imum surface area per additional animal = 2,000m²• Pool facilities = 100m² per two bears; 50m² per additional bear.• M<strong>in</strong>imum requirement for dry, rest<strong>in</strong>g and social areas for polar bears=37.16m² per 2 bears, 3.72m² per additional animal.• Den should be 1.0-5.0 x 0.7-3.9 x 0.3-1.9 (length x width x depth m).Enclosure size shall prevent persistent conflicts between <strong>in</strong>dividuals,prevent ware down of physical characteristics of <strong>the</strong> enclosure, and preventunacceptable levels of parasites and pathogens.TAGConsiderable space is required <strong>in</strong> order for animals to move freely amongsteach o<strong>the</strong>r, structures, vegetation and substrates.The recommended size of <strong>in</strong>door cages and recommendations for <strong>the</strong> sizes ofplatforms/nest baskets are as follows:• Floor space = 18.0 m² (2 x head-body-length)• Smallest side = 3.0 m (head –body-length)• Rest<strong>in</strong>g place = 4.8m² (head-body-length x shoulder height)• Streams or pools should be around 100m² with shallow and deepwater.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?90www.acres.org.sg


APPENDIX II: GUIDELINES FOR ENCLOSURE DESIGNWSPA• <strong>Polar</strong> bears require two separate, large and overgrown outdoorenclosures for segregation purposes.• For non-breed<strong>in</strong>g animals <strong>the</strong> absolute m<strong>in</strong>imum number of enclosuresis two of equal size.• The enclosure has to accommodate for a full behavioural repertoire,and it has to accommodate for species needs as well as specific<strong>in</strong>dividual needs. It shall provide <strong>the</strong> animals with a choice ofenvironment and socialis<strong>in</strong>g, and it shall give <strong>the</strong> animal a sense ofbe<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> control. It shall be a large natural enclosure with concreteserv<strong>in</strong>g only as security and safety for animals and public. Thepermanent features of an outdoor enclosure shall provide key facilitiesfor swimm<strong>in</strong>g, seclusion, nest<strong>in</strong>g facilities as well as denn<strong>in</strong>g facilities.Indoor facilities shall be as well equipped as outdoor enclosures andshall be comfortable.• <strong>Bear</strong>s shall not be kept <strong>in</strong> traditional pits or concrete enclosures.• Concrete shall be restricted to security fences, support<strong>in</strong>g steepslopes or as <strong>the</strong> base of steps or step slopes.• All species must have a den or nest box appropriate for <strong>the</strong> species.Indoor facilities shall be as <strong>in</strong>terest<strong>in</strong>g and hospitable as outdoorquarters and <strong>the</strong>y shall have skylights and w<strong>in</strong>dows to allow for entryof natural light.• Temperature, ventilation and light<strong>in</strong>g shall at all times be suitable for<strong>the</strong> animal’s comfort and well-be<strong>in</strong>g.• Dens that are bare, damp and with a concrete floor are notacceptable.• There shall be at least two entrances to <strong>in</strong>door facilities, with freeaccess from <strong>the</strong> outdoor enclosure.• Indoor facilities shall provide rest<strong>in</strong>g platforms (not more than 1mabove <strong>the</strong> ground for ground dwell<strong>in</strong>g species, for older <strong>in</strong>dividuals notmore than 10-20cm above ground, for <strong>in</strong>dividuals that are not able toclimb nest<strong>in</strong>g materials must be provided on <strong>the</strong> ground).• For non-breed<strong>in</strong>g bears <strong>the</strong>re shall be a m<strong>in</strong>imum of (n + 1) <strong>in</strong>terl<strong>in</strong>ked<strong>in</strong>door cages.• Structures and furniture shall be well placed to allow animals to movefreely.• In polar bear enclosures <strong>the</strong> water to land ratio shall not exceed 1:3and water must be cooled.TAG• Enclosures of concrete are not suitable bear enclosures.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?91www.acres.org.sg


• For polar bears <strong>the</strong> ratio of water to land must not exceed 1:3.• There should be at least two entrances to <strong>in</strong>door facilities from <strong>the</strong>outdoor enclosure.Both WSPA and Tag guidel<strong>in</strong>es state that essential enclosure features<strong>in</strong>clude:• Provision of microclimate to provide sunny, dry and sheltered <strong>in</strong> coolwea<strong>the</strong>r; shady and open to <strong>the</strong> w<strong>in</strong>d. This can be created by shrubsand trees, hills, horizontal wooden logs, large roots, sewer pipes,rocks, caves <strong>in</strong> rocks, old barrels, and large boxes. The provision ofobservation po<strong>in</strong>ts to allow view<strong>in</strong>g beyond <strong>the</strong> enclosure provided bytrees, hills, rocks, dead trees form<strong>in</strong>g climb<strong>in</strong>g frames with platformsis also considered essential.• Provision of hid<strong>in</strong>g places for food to stimulate forag<strong>in</strong>g behavioursuch as piles of logs, rocks and wooden logs which can be moved by<strong>the</strong> animals, pipes <strong>in</strong>stalled vertically <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> ground, tree pipes.ABWAK• When construct<strong>in</strong>g new enclosures design should maximise choice andcontrol for <strong>the</strong> animals <strong>in</strong> captivity and provide means for <strong>the</strong> animalsto express a full behavioural repertoire, e.g. forag<strong>in</strong>g, digg<strong>in</strong>g,climb<strong>in</strong>g and rest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> natural substrates. Two separate outdoor areasare necessary <strong>in</strong> order to segregate animals for breed<strong>in</strong>g purposes,illness or aggression and for easy clean<strong>in</strong>g of <strong>the</strong> exhibit.• For <strong>in</strong>door accommodation, topography should allow for bears to viewbeyond <strong>the</strong>ir enclosure boundary to avoid stereotypic behaviours.• <strong>Polar</strong> bears must have pools with clear water. Underwater view<strong>in</strong>g isnot recommended, as glass walls prevent keepers from supply<strong>in</strong>ganimals with enrichment items which <strong>the</strong> animals potentially coulduse to break <strong>the</strong> glass. And underwater view<strong>in</strong>g requires clear waterconditions so natural substrates that may block dra<strong>in</strong>s and cloud watercannot be used.UFAW• Simulat<strong>in</strong>g sea-ice habitat by build<strong>in</strong>g concrete enclosures with bluepools can no longer be considered appropriate for polar bears.• <strong>Polar</strong> bear exhibits should <strong>in</strong>clude two separate paddocks <strong>in</strong> order toseparate <strong>in</strong>dividuals <strong>in</strong> times of sickness, reproduction and aggression.These areas should conta<strong>in</strong> large overgrown areas that will stimulate awide behavioural repertoire.IBF• If breed<strong>in</strong>g is not <strong>the</strong> purpose of <strong>the</strong> exhibit, <strong>the</strong> absolute m<strong>in</strong>imumnumber of enclosures is two of equal size. Keep<strong>in</strong>g bears <strong>in</strong> only onelarge enclosure should be avoided.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?92www.acres.org.sg


APPENDIX III: GUIDELINES FOR PROVISION OFSUITABLE CLIMATEWSPA• Facilities shall provide appropriate temperatures that meet <strong>the</strong>species natural needs. Facilities shall provide shelter from variouswea<strong>the</strong>r conditions, e.g. dry areas and shade at all times for all<strong>in</strong>dividuals.• Structures shall provide shelter <strong>in</strong> different wea<strong>the</strong>r conditions.• Outdoor facilities shall protect aga<strong>in</strong>st wea<strong>the</strong>r and sunlight.• All bear species must have access to cool, shady places dur<strong>in</strong>g hotsummer days.• In polar bear enclosures water must be cooled.TAG• All bear species must have access to cool, shady places dur<strong>in</strong>g hotsummer days and some species may choose shady places even atrelatively low ambient temperatures. Structures with<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> enclosureshould provide shelter <strong>in</strong> different wea<strong>the</strong>r conditions.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?93www.acres.org.sg


APPENDIX IV: GUIDELINES FOR SUBSTRATEWSPA• All <strong>in</strong>dividuals shall have free access to substrates at all times and <strong>in</strong>different microclimates. Substrates shall not be harmful to <strong>the</strong>animal’s sk<strong>in</strong> or fur, and it shall be provided <strong>in</strong> such amounts as toaccommodate for a full behavioural repertoire.• For all bear species substrate shall consist of natural groundvegetation. It shall be available <strong>in</strong> both shady and sunny places <strong>in</strong>order to provide a choice of microclimate accord<strong>in</strong>g to <strong>the</strong> wea<strong>the</strong>rconditions.• Ground surfaces shall vary across enclosures, <strong>in</strong>corporat<strong>in</strong>g naturalvegetation, earth, grass, bushes and trees.• A sufficient quantity of areas/pits shall be available to accommodateall <strong>in</strong>dividuals <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> enclosure.• Nest<strong>in</strong>g materials shall be available <strong>in</strong> both <strong>in</strong>door and outdoorquarters. Areas shall conta<strong>in</strong> materials such as dry leaves, hay, straw,wooden shav<strong>in</strong>gs or wood chips.TAG• Areas should conta<strong>in</strong> materials such as dry leaves, hay, straw, woodenshav<strong>in</strong>gs or wood chips.• Natural ground vegetation that is <strong>the</strong> best substrate for all bearspecies should be placed <strong>in</strong> both shady and sunny places <strong>in</strong> order toprovide a choice of microclimate accord<strong>in</strong>g to wea<strong>the</strong>r condition.• When plann<strong>in</strong>g new enclosures, ground vegetation should, if possible,consist of natural flora, o<strong>the</strong>rwise a grass/herb mixture along withtrees and bushes should be used.ABWAK• When construct<strong>in</strong>g new exhibits for polar bears, areas of naturalvegetation should be available where animals can express <strong>the</strong>ir fullbehavioural repertoire.UFAW• For polar bears, exist<strong>in</strong>g enclosures should be modified and should<strong>in</strong>corporate natural substrates and natural areas. Pits of sand, barklitter, soil or pebbles stimulate digg<strong>in</strong>g, build<strong>in</strong>g daybeds, rubb<strong>in</strong>g andforag<strong>in</strong>g. And it provides <strong>the</strong> animal with a comfortable rest<strong>in</strong>g area.There should be sufficient mummers of pits and natural areas so thatone <strong>in</strong>dividual does not monopolise <strong>the</strong>se substrates.• <strong>Bear</strong>s should have nest<strong>in</strong>g materials (straw, wood wool, branches orleaves) <strong>in</strong> both <strong>in</strong>door and outdoor quarters.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?94www.acres.org.sg


APPENDIX V: GUIDELINES FOR ENCLOSUREFURNITUREWSPA• Enclosures shall conta<strong>in</strong> suitable features to enable bears to climb, toview horizons, as obstacles to keep bears apart and for retreat toavoid visual contact between <strong>in</strong>dividuals.• Shrubs and tree branches shall be <strong>in</strong>cluded <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> enclosure <strong>in</strong> order tohide food and encourage natural forag<strong>in</strong>g behaviour.• Structures and furniture shall be well placed to allow animals to movefreely.• Enclosures shall be equipped with claw logs (tree trunks, logs etc.) ofsufficient size to allow fro proper claw or talon exercises.ABWAK• For polar bears, when improv<strong>in</strong>g exist<strong>in</strong>g enclosures <strong>in</strong>troduce: largetree trunks, sand pits, bark litter pits to allow for forag<strong>in</strong>g, digg<strong>in</strong>g,build<strong>in</strong>g daybeds, climb<strong>in</strong>g and rest<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> substrates.• For polar bears, <strong>in</strong>door accommodation should conta<strong>in</strong> woodenplatforms raised above groundWhat’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?95www.acres.org.sg


APPENDIX VI: GUIDELINES FOR PRIVATE AREASWSPA• <strong>Animal</strong>s shall have adequate retreat<strong>in</strong>g facilities away from peopleand o<strong>the</strong>r <strong>in</strong>dividuals.• Individuals shall be able to seek seclusion at all times.• Enclosures shall conta<strong>in</strong> suitable features as obstacles to keep bearsapart and for retreat to avoid visual contact between <strong>in</strong>dividuals.TAG and WSPA both recommend <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>g:• Hid<strong>in</strong>g places for bears to avoid conspecifics and visitors are essentialrequirement for bear enclosures. These may be provided by shrubsand trees, hills, horizontal wooden logs, large roots, sewer pipes,rocks, caves <strong>in</strong> rocks, large boxes and barrels.• Obstacles to deter bears from attack<strong>in</strong>g each o<strong>the</strong>r are essential.These can be trees and shrubs, large horizontal logs or tree trunks.UFAW• Visual barriers can be <strong>in</strong>troduced <strong>in</strong>to exist<strong>in</strong>g enclosures to provide<strong>the</strong> animals with <strong>the</strong> opportunity to be without visual contact and toprevent aggressive <strong>in</strong>teractions.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?96www.acres.org.sg


APPENDIX VII: GUIDELINES FOR ENRICHMENTPROGRAMMESWSPA• <strong>Polar</strong> bears shall have various enrichment objects available, <strong>the</strong>seshall vary <strong>in</strong> shape, size, texture and colour. A m<strong>in</strong>imum of 10 objectsshould be available <strong>in</strong> one enclosure and at least one per <strong>in</strong>dividual.All non-consumable and consumable enrichment items should besupplies <strong>in</strong> sufficient amounts to occupy all <strong>in</strong>dividuals <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> exhibit.• Environmental enrichment shall be a priority for daily husbandry, i.e.time, facilities and budget shall be appropriate or <strong>the</strong> welfare of <strong>the</strong>animals.• Enrichment is a necessity <strong>in</strong> all bear enclosures, also large naturalenclosures.TAG• Day-to-day enrichment is only effective if stimuli/objects arefrequently changed.• For polar bears, <strong>the</strong> follow<strong>in</strong>g feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichment techniques arerecommended: ice blocks with food <strong>in</strong> different sized buckets withouthandles; ice blocks with food <strong>in</strong> large tubs; fish or nuts <strong>in</strong> a plastic canwith small open<strong>in</strong>gs; whole cucumbers or melons; branches; honey,ketchup or mayonnaise smeared <strong>in</strong> or on traffic cones or buckets;bones of cattle or horses; hides.ABWAK• For polar bears enrichment items that <strong>in</strong>duce play and more social<strong>in</strong>teraction should be <strong>in</strong>troduced, as well as greater use of <strong>the</strong>enclosure and a higher level of activity. The objects should be ofvary<strong>in</strong>g shape, size, colour and texture and offered with a m<strong>in</strong>imum of10 objects <strong>in</strong> an enclosure. Always provide at least one object per<strong>in</strong>dividual.UFAW• <strong>Animal</strong>s have more of a choice and a sense of control of <strong>the</strong>irenvironment if <strong>the</strong>y have a wide variety of objects to choose between.Moveable objects should on a regular basis be removed and <strong>in</strong>troducedto <strong>the</strong> enclosure <strong>in</strong> order to stimulate exploratory and playbehaviours.• With large food items and <strong>in</strong>edible play objects enough should beprovided to activate all <strong>in</strong>dividuals at <strong>the</strong> same time.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?97www.acres.org.sg


• Environmental enrichment should be a priority on a daily basis. Thereshould be enough time, facilities and appropriate budgets forenrichment programmes.IBF• Enrichment is a necessity <strong>in</strong> large natural enclosures, and aprogramme should be set up for any given bear enclosure.• Feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichment shall be explored, such as chang<strong>in</strong>g <strong>the</strong> times offeed<strong>in</strong>g, hid<strong>in</strong>g food items, supplementary feed<strong>in</strong>g (vegetables, fruits,browse, rawhide dog bones and live or fresh fish), f<strong>in</strong>ely chopped andscattered/hidden frozen blocks of ice or conta<strong>in</strong>ers that offermanipulation.• Introduce manipulative objects or objects for exploration, e.g. trafficcones, “boomer” balls, heavy rubber buckets. Rotate <strong>the</strong>se items dailyor periodically.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?98www.acres.org.sg


APPENDIX VIII: GUIDELINES FOR FEEDING TECHNIQUESWSPA• Food shall be provided at different times throughout <strong>the</strong> day, at leastthree meals per day, and on an adlib basis. Meal frequency shall<strong>in</strong>crease gradually for species that naturally adapt a seasonal variation<strong>in</strong> feed<strong>in</strong>g motivation.• The animal’s ma<strong>in</strong> meal of <strong>the</strong> day shall be fed <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> morn<strong>in</strong>g at afixed time and it shall not be fed <strong>in</strong>doors.• Feed<strong>in</strong>g methods shall allow for extensive forag<strong>in</strong>g, naturalmanipulation, and process<strong>in</strong>g. Most foods shall be scattered or hidden<strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> outdoor enclosure.• <strong>Polar</strong> bears benefit from feed that floats <strong>in</strong> water.• Clean fresh dr<strong>in</strong>k<strong>in</strong>g water shall be available and accessible at alltimes for all <strong>in</strong>dividuals.TAG• Food should be presented so that manipulation, process<strong>in</strong>g food itemsand extensive forag<strong>in</strong>g will stimulate natural conditions. Meat shouldbe provided as whole animals or large carcass portions. For polarbears, food that floats should occasionally be scattered <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> water.• Seasonal variations <strong>in</strong> feed<strong>in</strong>g motivation should be taken <strong>in</strong>to account<strong>in</strong> feed<strong>in</strong>g management.• <strong>Animal</strong>s should be offered at least three meals <strong>in</strong> a day with most foodscattered <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> outdoor enclosure.• Feed<strong>in</strong>g enrichment should take <strong>in</strong>to account that different specieshave different ways of forag<strong>in</strong>g, i.e. utilise different food seek<strong>in</strong>gskills.UFAW• <strong>Bear</strong>s should receive <strong>the</strong>ir ma<strong>in</strong> meal early <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> morn<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> order toreduce <strong>the</strong> animals’ stress level <strong>in</strong> anticipation of food.• In order to stimulate forag<strong>in</strong>g behaviour, foods should be scatter fedor embedded <strong>in</strong> conta<strong>in</strong>ers or blocks of ice two to three times a day atirregular <strong>in</strong>tervals and with different contents.IBF• Scatter feed<strong>in</strong>g at different times a day must be considered.What’s a polar bear do<strong>in</strong>g <strong>in</strong> <strong>the</strong> tropics?99www.acres.org.sg

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