Use of space within their enclosure in captive Dholes (Cuon alpinus)

Abstract:

In this study, 12 dholes (Cuon alpinus) at Kolmården Wildlife Park were observed to investigate how they use their enclosure and if they tend to share space with each other. Using scan sampling for every five minutes, the location of the dholes was marked on a hand drawn map with 14 zones. The study lasted for a total of 72 observation hours during three weeks.  The results showed that the dholes had marked preferences for certain zones. Within the zones, attractive areas, so-called hotspots, were found. A hotspot includes the majority of the markings in the zones. The number of observations ranged from 1341 in the most popular zone to 71 in the least popular. Comparisons between data for mornings vs. afternoon and feeding days vs. non-feeding days showed no obvious differences in utilization of the zones. Two frequently used pathways through the enclosure were found. Finally, the results showed that the dholes have a tendency to share space with each other.