Exotic Enrichment & Learning - EEL lab

23/08/2026

Hey all,

Our study examining a nectar-based enrichment feeder with two species of parrot is now published. This was part of a DVM-1 project for two vet students, and we looked at two species of parrot: rainbow lorikeets, which are largely nectarivores, and regent parrots, which are largely granivores. The feeding devices were meant to deliver nectar, so the idea was to test how functionally related the enrichment effect would be for the two species. As expected, the nectar-based enrichment was most effective for the rainbow lorikeets in terms of increased aerial activity and device interactions. The simple message is a reminder that the way our enrichment works is directly related to the species and their natural repertoires, hence the importance of functional enrichment. Feel free to like, comment, and share, and always happy to answer any questions about the paper! 🦜

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/412349525_Functionally_Relevant_Feeding_Enrichment_An_Examination_of_Nectar_Feeding_Devices_With_Two_Species_of_Parrot

07/07/2026

Happy to share that the updated version of our Least Inhibitive, Functionally Effective (LIFE) model paper has just been published!:

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/408479977_Extending_Animal_Training_Ethics_A_LIFE_Model_Expansion

The paper itself focuses on detailing the connection between reward-based training and animal welfare, including through (1) histories of both training and welfare, as well as their connection to ethics; and (2) the three explicit parts of the LIFE model: (a) increased meaningful choices, (b) identification of behavioral function, and (c) maximizing training success. Particularly with respect to the last point, how training connects to the individual and our relationship with them is emphasized, as both are how we can better measure success in improving the lives of the animals we train. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a model to support reward-based training practices, as well as build better bridges between the training practices and the behavioral and welfare sciences.

Feel free to like, comment, and share, and also reach out if you have questions! 🐕🐈🐔🐬🦜

06/06/2026

If you have time and the expertise (i.e., Eurasian lynx experience or knowledge), please consider participating in this survey. Below is some additional information, as well as a direct link the survey:

Dear Experts,

You are invited to participate in this Delphi survey regarding the Validation of Welfare Indicators for the captive Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx). This research project is part of a Master's Thesis aimed at developing a standardized, multidisciplinary welfare assessment protocol, structured around the Five Domains Model. This research is a collaboration between the University of Padova (Italy) and Jianghan University (Wuhan, China), along with other international experts.

https://ilariafrasson11.questionpro.com/t/AcydTZ8uQB

11/05/2026

Hey everyone,

We are just a few weeks away from the deadline to submit manuscripts to the special issue of Behavior Analysis in Practice (June 1, 2026* [see extended deadline below]). The special issue is titled, "The Science and Practice of Applied Animal Behavior", and you can find more information about the special issue here:

https://link.springer.com/collections/dfgehbcfgf

You can also contact me directly at [email protected] if you have any specific questions about the issue. Looking forward to seeing your submissions!

NOTE: We have extended the deadline for submissions until August 1st. For all those that have messaged me saying they needed a bit more time, now you have it! :)

Call for Contributions Behavior Analysis in Practice (BAP) is pleased to announce a special issue dedicated to Applied Animal Behavior (AAB). This edition ...