Dunkel, A. 2008. Ice-timed feeders to promote foraging. Shape of Enrichment 17(3), 12-13.

For many animals in nature, foraging is simply a matter of traveling and discovering available food. It provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation, often consuming much of an animal’s time. Replicating this in a small, enclosed space is one of the greatest challenges for animal care professionals. Consequently, many zoos and conservation centers struggle to encourage natural foraging behaviors in their animals. All too often, the animals either find the majority of their food in a few minutes or become frustrated with difficult puzzle feeders and give up. During a project at the Lemur Conservation Foundation’s Myakka City Lemur Reserve, the challenge was to increase foraging activity throughout the day without dramatically increasing keeper time. Clearly a timed feeder was needed, but the device had to be simple and inexpensive. The solution involved the use of an ice block to restrict access to the food.