Assessing Enclosure Modifications to Enhance Accessibility for Zoo-Housed Meerkats (Suricata suricatta)

Scientific advancements have contributed to increased longevity of animals in zoos and aquariums, creating a growing need for environments that remain accessible to geriatric animals and animals with disabilities. However, few empirical studies have evaluated whether accessibility-focused enclosure modifications impact species-appropriate behavior. We evaluated the effects of accessibility modifications on a group of four adult zoo-housed meerkats (Suricata suricatta), including one individual with a forelimb amputation and one geriatric individual. Low-level logs and steps were added to the enclosure to provide intermediate heights and facilitate access to elevated areas. Following the introduction of these enclosure modifications, sentry behavior increased, with all individuals engaging in this behavior compared with only one individual during baseline. The meerkats also increased their overall use of low-elevated areas following modification, although individual responses varied. Posture differed between study phases, with meerkats more frequently adopting tri/quadrupedal postures following modification. Together, these findings suggest that relatively simple accessibility-focused modifications can expand opportunities for geriatric animals and animals with disabilities to engage in species-appropriate behavior. More broadly, this case study highlights the importance of empirically evaluating accessibility interventions and incorporating universal design principles into animal spaces to accommodate individuals with diverse physical abilities and promote positive animal welfare.