wild vs captive behaviours

• what is mate selection influenced by?

  • Natural selection
  • Genetic compatibility 
  • Social cues
• In the wild, animals have more freedom to choose their mates based on these factors, while in captivity, their choices may be limited by human intervention
• Animals in the wild are attuned to natural cues like decreasing daylight, temperature drops, and food scarcity, which trigger the onset of hibernation. Captive animals may not experience the same natural cues, zoos and wildlife sanctuaries keep a relatively stable temperature year round, which can disrupt the hibernation cycle.  
• Many species in the wild will only allow one male within their group for various reasons, such as resource competition and reduced aggression . 

  • Many animals will often kill or abandon a conspecific when they become weak 
• Natural diet: wild animals have evolved to consume a diet that is specific to their species and habitat.

  Seasonal variation: the availability of food in the wild often varies with the seasons. Animals may ended to adapt their feeding strategies to cope with these fluctuations
• Controlled diet: diets typically consist of commercially prepared food or a combination of natural and processed ingredients 

  Supplementation: captive animals may require additional supplements, such as vitamins and minerals, to ensure they receive all the nutrients they need
• Artificial heating and lighting are essential tools for maintaining the health and well being of captive animals. It is crucial to use these tools judiciously to replicate natural conditions as closely as possible
• Thermoregulation: many animals require specific temperature ranges for optimal health and behaviour. Artificial heating can provide warmth during colder months or in enclosures that lack natural heat sources 

  Metabolic processes: maintaining appropriate temperatures is crucial for various metabolic processes, such as digestion and reproduction 
• Circadian rhythm: artificial lighting can help to regulate an animals’ circadian rhythms, ensuring they have periods of activity and rest 

  Seasonal cycles: by adjusting light intensity and duration, its possible to mimic seasonal changes and trigger natural behaviours, such as breeding and migration 

  Vitamin D production: for animals that rely on sunlight for vitamin D synthesis, artificial UV lighting can be essential