Legal requirements for the provision of enrichment in zoos in Europe
There are no legal requirements for the provision of enrichment in zoological institutions in Europe; however, voluntary standards are in place for zoos that choose to implement them.
ENZA (European association of zoos and aquaria) published standards for the Accommodation and Care of Animals in Zoos and Aquaria in 2014.
According to EAZA Standards for the Accommodation and Care of Animals in Zoos and Aquaria:
- ENZA members are expected to provide a high standard of accommodation for all the animals in their care, both on-show and off-show, permanent and temporary.
- Accommodation must take account of the welfare of the species, their space and social needs, appropriate management by staff and appropriate display to the public.
- Environmental and behavioral enrichment must be provided.
Click here to see EAZA Standards for the Accommodation and Care of Animals in Zoos and Aquaria.