Date of Award
2005
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
October 2026
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Broadfield, Douglas C.
Abstract
Knowing how to keep captive gibbons can have an impact on the field of anthropology and, in turn, improve the care of these animals in captivity. A brachiating structure designed for enriching gibbon habitat was constructed on one of two islands in a captive enclosure. The data collected was analyzed on time spent brachiating compared to time spent on the ground. A key factor in collecting data was the placement of the observer with respect to the proximity of the gibbons being observed. In this study the gibbons spent more time on the grass when observing them at close range. The gibbons spent a greater amount of time on the brachiating structure when observed from a distance. Despite complications in data collection, the gibbons displayed preference for the redesigned structure, and were observed brachiating more frequently on the stable supports than the rope supports in the unmodified enclosure.
Extent
65 p.
Recommended Citation
Schwartz, Michele R., "Development and importance of brachiation: How enclosure design affects activity patterns in captive gibbons (Hylobates lar)" (2005). Electronic Theses and Dissertations 2000 - 2009. 840.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general_5/840
Identifier
FADT13226
Comments
Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Thesis (M.A.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2005.|Dorothy F. Schmidt College of Arts and Letters