Case study: Crocodilian exhibits

Case study: Crocodilian exhibits

It is acknowledged that reptiles experience negative emotional states, can suffer, and there is growing evidence that reptiles are far more intellectually and socially complex than previously thought. In fact, new findings about the rich intellectual, emotional and social lives of reptiles surface every year.

30% of Sea Life aquariums house four species of crocodile – Yacare caiman (Caiman yacare), Cuban crocodile, African dwarf crocodile, and Cuvier’s dwarf caiman (Paleosuchus palpebrosus). None of these crocodile are suited to life in captivity – the Cuvier’s dwarf caiman …

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Case study: Octopus exhibits

Case study: Octopus exhibits

Octopuses are carnivorous, marine animals considered the most intelligent invertebrate. They have a well-developed nervous system and a complex brain, which is relatively larger than the brains of some fishes and reptiles.

Octopuses have numerous sense organs which rival those found in vertebrates in their complexity, including excellent eyesight and sense of touch. Like other animals, octopuses have temperaments that vary between individuals. They learn mazes, distinguish between shapes and patterns in classical conditioning, use landmark navigation whilst foraging, use tools, and play. Despite this, they …

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News: Conservation claims of Sea Life centres don’t stand up to scrutiny

News: Conservation claims of Sea Life centres don’t stand up to scrutiny

Since early last year, Freedom for Animals has worked alongside local groups to oppose plans to open a new Sea Life aquarium in the busy Trafford Shopping Centre in Greater Manchester. When plans were first mooted, Freedom for Animals requested meetings with representatives from the shopping centre and its parent company to discuss concerns. Contact with the parent company was simply ignored and the centre representatives refused the meeting request.

Planning permission for the ill-conceived aquarium was subsequently granted and the centre is reported to be due to …

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Publication: Aquatic Zoos – Full 2004 Investigation Report

Publication: Aquatic Zoos – Full 2004 Investigation Report

Publication: Suffering Deep Down 2004 Summary Report

Publication: Suffering Deep Down 2004 Summary Report