Connecting people to zoo and aquarium animals

In Study 1 a working definition of animal connectedness was developed that included elements of both cognitive and affective responses to the animals. Visitors’ understanding of the animals’ behaviours and emotions was related to higher levels of connection. Additionally, in Study 2, visitors who observed animals eating or interacting with other animals had higher levels of connection than those who did not observe these behaviours.

Study 3 explored if, and how, people chose to stay connected to zoos and/or aquariums during COVID-19 lockdowns. Results showed that people maintained their connection with these institutions not only out of interest in animals, but also for social reasons, underscoring the potential of these connections to contribute to aspects of social and emotional wellbeing. <br><br>Study 4 explored the efficacy of an online anthropomorphic storytelling connection tool in shaping people’s feelings of connection towards, perceptions, and willingness to donate to the care of two relatively unpopular species, a fish and an insect.

Results revealed that participants who viewed anthropomorphic materials perceived animals as sharing similar traits to humans, potentially leading to increased willingness to donate to the care of zoo-housed species. The final study in this thesis (Study 5) used two methodological approaches (interviews and tank observations) to explore the value of an anthropomorphic story-based trail book in shaping a variety of outcome measures, including feelings of connectedness, learning, engagement and positive emotions towards aquatic species.

The study also examined whether this type of connection tool has an impact on visitors’ connections to each other and feelings of short-term well-being. Results showed that the use of storytelling tools on-site at an aquarium enhanced learning, short-term well-being and feelings of caring and relatability, particularly towards lesser-known species such as sharks and fish.<br><br>Overall, the findings from this thesis reveal the importance of promoting emotional and cognitive connections in enhancing visitor well-being and creating positive zoo experiences.

By strategically fostering these connections, zoos and aquariums may be in a position to potentially increase visitor engagement, well-being, and support for species conservation.<br><br><i>Thesis is embargoed until 31 July 2028.</i><br>