Abstract: Studies on three species of big cats at Dublin Zoo have led to firm conclusions about the effects of certain forms of enrichment, some of which will be presented here. Lions, jaguars, and snow leopards were studied over two years and their behaviours quantified using focal animal sampling during selected hours during daylight. By comparison of these activity budgets with and without the enrichments being present, it was possible to identify the exact behavioural changes caused by each enrichment method, and to quantify these changes. In this contribution we present results showing that the presence of a platform in both lion and jaguar enclosures dramatically reduced stereotypic pacing behaviour. We will demonstrate that the effects of short term enrichment devices may have a wide range of effects on behaviours which outlast the presence of the stimulus. For instance scents added to the cage, or food/play items such as horse hides, hidden fish or ice-blocks often reduce pacing and increase resting later in the day, even after the cats have ceased using the enrichment items. This reduction in pacing and increase in resting time often meant that the amount of the enclosure used per hour was actually reduced with the presence of new stimuli, as result opposite to what might have been expected. The results of these studies will be discussed in relation to effective animal management.

Abstract: Detailed review of snow leopard distribution and abundance, behavior, ecology,captive population and conservation measures in the Soviet Union. Estimates a snow leopard population of 300 +/- 150.

Abstract: Describes the range, behaviour and ecology of lion Panthera leo, tiger P. tigris, leopard P. pardus, snow leopard P. uncia, clouded leopard Neofelis nebylosa and cheetah Acinonyx jubatus. -P.J.Jarvis

Abstract: Discusses distribution and habitat of snow leopard in India. Estimates population of 200-400 in entire Himalayan region. Reports seventeen occasions of observing snow leopards in the wild, one involving the killing of Himalayan thar. Discusses snow leopard hunting methods and food habits, and provides evidence of predation from examination of 17 snow leopard kills.

Abstract: Eight adult pairs of snow leopards (Panthera uncia) were observed for one to three years in the months December through March to determine the species' social and reproductive characteristics in captivity. To statistically examine the occurrence of behaviors as a function of estrus, the observation weeks were divided into three time blocks: before estrus, estrus, and after estrus. Using percentage of scan samples as an estimate of time spent in various behaviors, 16 behaviors and combined behavior categories were examined for (1) behaviors that differentiated successfully from unsuccessfully breeding pairs, (2) sex differences in behavior, (3) significant correlations between pair members, and (4) behaviors that showed time block effects. The rationale for identifying a behavioral profile of successful breeders in snow leopards was to aid zoos in their captive management programs by increasing their knowledge of the social behavior of this species. By finding correlates to breeding success, informed decisions on whether to change partners after a certain period of time, how to group the cats, and the optimum strategy for a survival plan can be made. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2000 APA, all rights reserved