Diet composition is increasingly recognised as a welfare determinant for zoo animals with species-appropriate diets replacing convenience-based feeding.
Key Facts
Evidence-based research supports welfare improvements in zoo diet welfare evidence
Millions of animals benefit from better zoo animals welfare practices
Individual actions and policy change both drive welfare improvements
Science, advocacy, and consumer choice are all important levers for change
Progress is achievable and measurable across this welfare domain
Welfare Considerations
Species-appropriate diets prevent nutritional disease and support natural behaviour.
What You Can Do
Support zoos with evidence-based species-appropriate feeding
Advocate for diet welfare standards in zoo accreditation