Zoo Animal Welfare

Zoo Gibbon Locomotor Welfare

Gibbons are the fastest and most agile of the apes, requiring extensive overhead structures for brachiation that few zoo enclosures adequately provide.

Key Facts

Wild gibbons brachiate through forest canopy at up to 55km/h over large territories
Brachiation requires long arms, strong shoulders, and extensive overhead apparatus
Inadequate overhead structures cause muscle atrophy and reduced welfare in captive gibbons
Several gibbon species are critically endangered making zoo populations conservation assets
Song duets between bonded pairs are important social welfare behaviours

Welfare Considerations

Gibbon welfare depends on opportunity for brachiation through complex overhead structures that enable their extraordinary locomotor abilities. Enclosures that prevent this fundamental behaviour cause physical deconditioning and psychological frustration in these highly active primates.

What You Can Do

Support zoos with complex, large gibbon exhibits enabling brachiation behaviour
Advocate for locomotor enrichment standards for brachiating primates in zoo accreditation
Donate to gibbon conservation organisations protecting forest habitat in Southeast Asia