Enrichment programmes in zoos aim to promote species-appropriate behaviour, reduce stereotypies, and improve the psychological wellbeing of captive animals.
Captive animals in under-enriched environments develop abnormal behaviours — pacing, rocking, bar-biting — that indicate chronic stress and frustrated natural motivations. Enrichment that provides challenges, novelty, and control over the environment can significantly improve welfare. However, enrichment cannot fully compensate for space limitations, social isolation, or inability to perform wide-ranging natural behaviours. High-quality enrichment is necessary but not sufficient — it must be combined with appropriately large, complex habitats.