Bachelorprojekt, Carina Sparre Lippert, (KU-BIO), Torben Dabelsteen (KU-BIO), Mikkel Stelvig

In this project, I have in spring 2011 been observing the wolves in Copenhagen Zoo, trying to determine whether they show any signs of stress, and which factors that might affect this. Taking departure in observations from zoo keepers and the visitors, my pre-comprehension was that the three wolves were running a lot, along the same route in the enclosure, a behaviour that could be a sign of pacing. Besides from that, it also seemed like the wolves are bored, and I have therefore discussed the opportunities for enrichment and activation, in addition to the opportunities for giving some more space to the wolves. My analyses showed only little evidence that the wolves were stressed in the period of my observations, but there was however, significant evidence which showed that the presence of the zoo keepers had an influence on the behaviour of the wolves. The female also stood out significantly from the two males, in regards to some types of behaviour.