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  • Clinical Techniques
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Enrichment for Carneaux pigeons used in behavioral learning research

Lab Animal volume 39, pages 40–41 (2010)Cite this article

Abstract

In studies of behavior and learning, common enrichment items and techniques may be prohibited because they interfere with the study. This column describes a new enrichment strategy that can be given to pigeons being used in behavioral learning research. The enrichment device encourages foraging in singly housed Carneaux pigeons.

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Figure 1: An extra-large, blue Litter Buster litter-box mat that will be cut into smaller, 3-in-square pieces to be used as an enrichment medium for Carneaux pigeons.
Figure 2: Close-up view of the litter-box mat.
Figure 3: A Carneaux pigeon actively using a foraging square made from a litter-box mat filled with cracked corn.

References

  1. Conte, A. Pigeons used in research: From barren single housing to an enriched environment. AWI (Animal Welfare Institute) Quarterly 54, 14–15 (2005).

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  2. AWA (Animal Welfare Act). Food Security Act of 1985, Public Law 99-198.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Monmouth University, Long Branch, NJ; Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital, Oakhurst, NJ; and New Jersey Veterinary Technicians and Assistants Inc.,

    Tracy Turner

  2. Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital, Oakhurst, NJ, Toms River, NJ

    Tracy Turner

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  1. Tracy Turner
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Correspondence to Tracy Turner.

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Turner, T. Enrichment for Carneaux pigeons used in behavioral learning research. Lab Anim 39, 40–41 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1038/laban0210-40

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/laban0210-40

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