Animal-Visitor Interactions: Where Do We Go from Here?

Animal-visitor interactions (AVIs) involve the study of both the impacts of zoo visitors on animals (visitor effects) and those of animals on zoo visitors (visitor experiences). In the last century, particularly in the last few years, AVIs have become an increasingly studied topic within zoos. However, most of this research has focused on correlational studies of the visitor effect on the behavioral welfare of mammal species. In this paper, we discuss additional considerations for future AVI research that could assist in how we study AVIs, including research incorporating: (1) animal-staff interactions, (2) non-mammalian species, and (3) improved methods and metrics used. With all three, past and potential future research are considered, including what might help in incorporating such factors. Thus, the goal is to provide the reader with a better understanding of additional AVI research factors worth consideration, as well as offering a path forward for how to advance and expand our AVI research efforts.