Modern zoos play a critical role in global conservation, but supporting wildlife under human care goes far beyond habitat design. Hear how ZSL's experts use science, behavioural insight and veterinary care to help animals thrive and support species on the brink of extinction. From ensuring penguins can express their natural behaviours, to delivering tailored veterinary care to supports lions' long-term health and welfare, this episode of Wild Science shines a light on the dedication and expertise within ZSL's Evidence-based Animal Care Team and beyond.

Overview

00:13    Harriet McAra, Host of Wild Science, Episode introduction

01:05    Jim Mackie, Animal Behaviour Management Officer, ZSL A history of animal enrichment in zoos, recorded at London Zoo's Penguin Beach

06:57    How zoo animal welfare can contribute to wild species recovery, recorded in the Blackburn Pavilion

20:16    Training for health checks and veterinary care, recorded in the Land of the Lions

39:22    Thank you and outro

Resources

If there's a topic you'd like to hear on a future podcast, or if you'd like to share your thoughts, email the ZSL Wild Science Podcast at: wild.science@zsl.org Check out our science and conservation work at: www.zsl.org/Science or www.zsl.org/conservation Jim Mackie: https://www.zsl.org/about-zsl/our-people/jim-mackie  The Science of Saving Species: https://www.zsl.org/news-and-events/events/science-saving-species  Lion feeding enrichment example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Hqrweox2UA&t=290  Get in touch 

Email wild.science@zsl.org with your questions, comments, and thoughts for future episodes! Find us @ZSLScience on X or @zslofficial.bsky.social on BlueSky and use the hashtag #ZSLWildScience Follow us on Facebook @ZSLScienceAndConservation

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Releasedatum: 30-4-2026 09:00:00