The rhythm of stereotypic behaviors in captive giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)北大核心CSCD

Stereotypy can be defined as a repetitive behavioral pattern with no apparent function or target in captivity. It is considered an abnormal behavior in contrast to the behavior in wild habitats and is often used as an important index to evaluate the captive environment, which has a significant scientific value. Many previous studies have focused on the impact of environment on stereotypical behavior; however, the rhythm of stereotypy remains unclear. To determine the mechanism of stereotypy, eight giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) were investigated 24 h a day from Jan 2018 to Dec 2019, with focal sampling and continuous recording. No stereotypy in the juveniles was noted, while the adult giant pandas displayed different stereotypies. Mean stereotypy durations were 0.72% of the total activity in circadian rhythm, with a peak of mean durations in all seasons occurring at 7:00 am–9:00 am, while, in spring, there was a peak of mean duration at 1:00 am–3:00 am. Although there was no significant difference, mean stereotypy durations and frequencies in the night were longer than those in the daytime. Mean stereotypy frequencies in spring reached the highest level, whereas mean stereotypy durations in winter were maximal. The adult giant pandas in the daytime showed maximal mean stereotypy durations in winter and minimal mean stereotypy durations in busy seasons (summer and autumn), whereas mean stereotypy durations at night were maximal in busy seasons. Despite no significant differences among these seasons, our results suggest that the stereotypy of giant pandas may have diurnal rhythms and seasonal differences. In light of the similar captive environment between adult and juvenile giant pandas, the appearance of stereotypy may be correlated with age, which may be the effects of the environment or a strategy of adaptation. © 2022 Science Press. All rights reserved.