Literaturdatenbank
Literaturdatenbank |
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Case, B. C. (2003). Environmental enrichment for captive eastern box turtles ( terrapene carolina carolina). Unpublished thesis MS, North Carolina State University.
Added by: Admin (14 Aug 2008 20:37:13 UTC) |
| Resource type: Thesis/Dissertation BibTeX citation key: Case2003 View all bibliographic details  |
Categories: General Keywords: Emydidae, Haltung = husbandry, Schildkröten = turtles + tortoises, Terrapene, Terrapene carolina, Verhalten = ethology Creators: Case Publisher: North Carolina State University |
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| Abstract |
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This study examined the physiological and behavioral impact of housing conditions on the captive eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina), and determined if box turtles exhibit a preference for an enriched or barren environment. Thirty-eight box turtles were randomized to either a barren (flat newspaper substrate) or enriched (cypress mulch substrate, shredded paper and a hide box) enclosure for a period of one month. Complete blood counts, fecal corticosterone, and body weights were measured at the beginning and end of the treatment period. Behavior was also assessed during the study. Prior to treatment each turtle was placed in a preference test system in which it could move freely between a barren and enriched environment. Relative dwelling time was determined for each environment. This study shows that the captive housing environment can negatively or positively influence the physiology and behavior of box turtles. Housing modifications that encourage typical species specific behavior should be provided. For the box turtle these would include substrate in which to dig and items that permit hiding. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)
Added by: Admin |