Moving forward with zoo welfare assessment: A response to Cooke (2017)

Abstract

In this response, we show how the points raised in Rose et al. (2017) are relevant across taxa. The original article reviewed literature on 3 basic “groups” of animal, with a specific remit of identifying welfare needs within these groups. The focus of this article did not intend to exclude other types of animal but to show the extent of research needs in those already studied. The ideas presented are relevant to those studying other taxa, specifically scientists and zoo biologists with more expertise and knowledge of invertebrates. We feel that there is much to be gained from collaboration between individuals and institutions to adapt the questions for assaying welfare proposed by Rose et al. (2017) to a wider range of captive vertebrate and invertebrate taxa.