Evaluating Behavioral Management Practices for Laboratory Nonhuman Primates: An International Survey

Area of Science:

• Animal Welfare Science
• Primatology
• Comparative Animal Management

Background:

• Behavioral management is crucial for nonhuman primates (NHPs) in research settings.
• Previous surveys indicated regional variations in NHP care practices.
• Understanding current practices is essential for welfare improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct the largest survey to date on NHP behavioral management practices.
• To compare practices across the European Union (EU), United Kingdom (UK), and United States of America (US).
• To identify regional differences and opportunities for welfare refinement.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive survey of 49 research facilities breeding and housing NHPs.
• Data collection on management practices for a total of 50,842 NHPs.
• Comparative analysis of practices across the EU, UK, and US, with historical US data.

Main Results:

• Significant variations in NHP behavioral management practices were observed between regions.
• UK and EU facilities demonstrate advanced practices in social housing, infant separation, enclosure size, and enrichment.
• US facilities show progress in exercise enclosure access, though social housing and enrichment for caged NHPs have seen limited improvement.

Conclusions:

• Facilities in the UK and EU are leaders in NHP behavioral management best practices.
• While progress is evident in the US, disparities in social housing and enrichment persist.
• Knowledge transfer and resource allocation are key to overcoming constraints and enhancing NHP welfare and research outcomes.