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In zoos and aquariums, scientists may study behavior to make sure all
animals are healthy.
They also may want to know how an animal uses the space in its
habitat to make sure that the habitat fills all the needs for that particular animal. Behavior studies
are a great way to learn about animals since scientists can observe animals from a distance.
In the opera
Second Nature
, animals and humans both live within these habitats. In reality, zoos
spend a lot of time researching each animal species to be sure that the habitat fills that animal’s
needs, including food, water, shelter, enrichment, and any social groupings, to keep the animal
active both mentally and physically. In the wild, many of the reasons to study animal behavior
are the same. Scientists want to be sure that animals in the wild are healthy and can use their
habitats in a natural way. In many places around the world, humans change the environment
and may take away important habitats from animals. This happens in
Second Nature
—humans
have hurt the environment and can no longer live outdoors.
Lincoln Park Zoo is dedicated to connecting people with nature by providing a free, family-
oriented wildlife experience in the heart of Chicago and by advancing the highest quality of
animal care, education, science, and conservation. Over the last 20 years, the zoo has added
over 40 researchers to conserve habitats and animals and make sure they are safe and healthy!
Observing Ape Behavior
Imagine you are a Lincoln Park Zoo researcher in the Republic of Congo in Africa, where you
study how gorillas and chimpanzees live near one another in one of the most protected natural
landscapes on earth. The Goualougo Triangle is home to forest elephants, chimpanzees, and
western lowland gorillas, many of which have never seen humans. By studying ape behavior, tool-
use, and how logging affects these endangered animals, scientists David Morgan and Crickette
Sanz collect data that will help ape conservation throughout Africa.
Why Do Scientists
Study Animal Behavior?
by Lincoln Park Zoo