Mirrors reflect natural behaviours in animals from land and sea
The animals at Melbourne Zoo are being given some extra face time, thanks to the introduction of mirrors among the treetops and deep within the seagrass.
This week, zoo keepers have introduced mirrors into the habitats of two very different species – Bolivian squirrel monkeys and Big-belly seahorses – to provide environmental variation, as well as encourage the expression of species-specific behaviours.
Melbourne Zoo Life Sciences Manager Gillian Maxwell said a variety of animals can benefit from a little bit of face time.
“It’s well known that primates and other mammals respond to enriching experiences, such as seeing their reflection in a mirror,” said Ms Maxwell. “What might surprise people is that seahorses and fish have the same capacity for curiosity.
"Both species engage with the mirror and spend time going up to touch it and look at their reflection.
“We also observe the squirrel monkeys vocalising, which is a territorial response and suggests that they are perceiving their reflection as another individual in their range.”
For some social species, who live in mobs, troupes or packs, having the opportunity to show territorial behaviours is valuable to encourage group cohesion.
Every animal in the care of Zoos Victoria’s four properties is given the opportunity to learn and encounter new challenges with a variety of enriching experiences offered daily. Enrichment items are rotated to ensure they remain novel and engaging to keep the animals curious and mentally and physically stimulated.
