Abstract or Keywords
Reptiles are increasing in popularity as pets but have been the subject of limited research on the long-term effects of captive environments on their behaviour and welfare. Thus, we lack crucial scientific evidence upon which to base welfare recommendations. This research investigated the impact of different types of environment (Standard, Non-Naturalistic Enriched, Naturalistic Enriched) on the behaviour and welfare of a popular pet species, the Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius). Results revealed that the provision of enrichment increased the expression of behaviours associated with positive affective states and increased behavioural diversity—most likely due to the stimulation provided to the animals through choice and control. Further, animals housed in enriched enclosures showed fewer behaviours associated with negative affective states, such as escape behaviour. However, there was no difference between the two types of enriched housing in these measures. A preference test, where the animals could choose which environment to spend time in revealed that they generally preferred enclosures with naturalistic enrichment over those with non-naturalistic enrichment. Therefore, it is recommended that leopard geckos should be kept in enriched enclosures, with naturalistic resources provided where possible.