Malayan Tiger Modular Ball Experiment

Abstract

By Garrett Krueger, Architecture; Deepansh Pahwa, Computer Science; Zachary Fickenworth, Finance

Advisor: Francis Russell

Presentation ID: AM_ATRIUM31

Abstract: This interdisciplinary team design project was carried out during the spring semester of 2019 as a part of the UC Forward Inquiry to Innovation Class. Student teams collaborated with the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden to produce and test animal enrichment prototypes for use in the exhibits of fours species at the Zoo, including Malayan Tigers, Giraffes, Little Penguins, and the Rhinoceros Hornbill. Teamwork included researching species behavior, best practices in animal enrichment and animal exhibit design. Applied research included prototype design and fabrication and behavior observation of the prototypes in use by the animals. Enrichment opportunities for animals in captivity are intended to promote cognitive and physical development for the animal as well as to enhance the Zoo visitor's comprehension of animal behavior. Our project was designed for the Malayan Tigers. Our group desired to bring out some of the predatory instincts Tigers typically fail to exhibit in zoos where food is merely provided and not hunted. Our project is a Boomer Ball, a large plastic ball designed for animals, and use the inside as space for inserting various enrichment devices such as a bluetooth speaker to mimc animal sounds or emit a scent that would attract the tigers. The goal is that these modules provide the tigers more varied enrichment that invokes predatory behaviors.