ZooCheck New Zealand

ZOOCHOTIC BEHAVIOUR

An animal that is described as Zoochotic has become mentally ill as evidenced by repetitive, obsessive behaviour. Examples of this can be seen at most zoos in such behaviours as:-

Bar Biting, Neck Twisting, Excessive Grooming
Head Bobbing, Coprophagia, Swaying/Pacing/Circling
Tongue Playing, Vomiting, Self Mutilation

And the Causes?

Separation from natural habitat
Loss of life in normal social groups
Enforced idleness
Drugs and medical fertility control
Direct control by humans
Caging - a totally alien environment

As identified by Dr G. Marvin & Dr B. Mullan in "Zoo Culture" 1987

Keeping animals in captivity can, and does, cause immense mental suffering to the species put on display for our pleasure. Zoochotic animals are no more to be laughed at than our own mentally ill humans.

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