Centros de triagem de animais silvestres: a importância do enriquecimento ambiental e a conservação das espécies

Abstract

This paper addresses the importance of environmental enrichment for the conservation of wild animals, especially those that are seized by illegal trafficking and received in sorting centers. Brazil has the greatest biodiversity in the world, with more than one hundred thousand animal species. However, this biodiversity is being threatened by illegal activities such as wildlife trafficking, which is responsible for the removal of 38 million animals from the country each year. Wild animals that are seized by illegal trafficking often arrive at sorting centers in poor condition and are subjected to stress, anxiety, and fear, and may present physical and behavioral problems. Environmental enrichment is a practice that can help improve the quality of life of these animals and increase the chances of release by providing animals with stimuli that allow them to express natural behaviors, such as foraging, climbing, socializing, and exploring. It can help improve the quality of life of animals, increase the chances of release, and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity.