Effects of conditioning on the welfare of jaguars (Panthera onca) in captivity

ABSTRACT The jaguar is the largest feline in Americas and face of threat extinction reduction natural areas, keeping species captivity may be important for its conservation. This condition can lead to a well-being, especially due spatial limitation lack environmental stimulus. In recent decades, techniques have been sought minimize negative impacts captivity, with an increase use enrichment operational conditioning order facilitate routine procedures animal management. this scenario, study aimed evaluate effects on welfare jaguars analyzing behavioral physiological through salivary cortisol. Seven were studied Scientific Breeder. There was behaviors associated cortisol during conditioning, possibly related learning. suggests that technique contribute improve quality life these animals captivity.