How Happy Do These Animals Look? Exploring Factors Influencing Children's Perceptions of Animal Welfare at the Zoo.

Abstract

Understanding how children and adolescents perceive zoo animal welfare provides insights into public views on captive conditions. This study used a mixed-methods approach to investigate these perceptions. A total of 254 participants (aged 7-18) were surveyed, with 113 completing the full circuit, which included species from distinct phylogenetic groups: monkey, macaw, caiman, frog, fish, and tarantula. Qualitative analysis (n = 254) evaluated children's recognition of animal needs, whereas quantitative analysis (n = 113) examined how phylogenetic distance, participants' emotional state, and overall welfare perception influenced animal and environmental assessments-a structured survey evaluating perceived animal health, enclosure conditions, and behavioral expression. Participants' understanding of animal welfare extended beyond basic needs, recognizing the importance of species-specific behaviors and appropriate environments. Environmental and animal assessment scores were significantly influenced by species, participants' emotional states, and overall welfare perceptions: fish received the highest scores, positive emotions were associated with higher ratings, and a better overall welfare perception correlated with more favorable assessments. We inferred that phylogenetic distance, emotional state, and general welfare impressions shaped how children and adolescents evaluate animal welfare. The study supported zoo-based educational strategies and reinforced the role of zoos in promoting welfare awareness and conservation-oriented attitudes.