Colchester Zoo is dedicated to encouraging, supporting and conducting research that improves captive animal management, benefits conservation programmes and contributes to the body of scientific knowledge about animals and their natural habitats.
Research is one of the primary objectives of Colchester Zoo and the World Zoo and Aquaria Conservation Strategy highlights research as a major role for modern zoos.
Colchester Zoo’s research includes both animal-based studies and visitor studies. Animal-based studies can focus on behaviour, welfare, nutrition, husbandry, environmental enrichment, ecology, reproduction and conservation. All animal-based research undertaken in the Zoo is non-invasive and mostly conducted through observation of the animals in their captive environment.
Research studies assist Colchester Zoo in a number of ways:
- Helping to develop successful animal management practices by assessing the effect of factors, such as enclosure design, diet and social grouping on the animals.
- Benefiting the conservation of species and habitats, by improving the success of captive breeding programmes and in-situ programmes.
- Promoting conservation through education by assessing visitor attitudes and perceptions.
The Director of Conservation, Education and Research works closely with animal management staff to identify priority topics and Colchester Zoo encourages applications for research within these priority areas.
You can receive a copy of the most up to date priority topic list by contacting the Director of Conservation, Education and Research at rebecca.perry@colchesterzoo.org
Application
All researchers wishing to conduct a project at, or in association with Colchester Zoo, must submit an application form.
Download the application form here
Research Handbook
It is advised that all students read the research handbook which details the guidelines all researchers are expected to follow whilst working at Colchester Zoo and provides details of the research fee process. Click the PDF icon to download the handbook.
Application Assessment
Applications are assessed by the Director of Conservation, Education and Research. Animal Management staff will accept applications on the basis of the subject area, including the value to science, and the logistics of the study, including staff time and resources.
All applications should be sent to the Director of Conservation, Education and Research one month in advance of the perspective start date, as it may take some time to organise the project with Animal Management staff. For further information about research at Colchester Zoo, please contact: Rebecca Moore, Director of Conservation, Education and Research, Colchester Zoo, Maldon Road, Stanway, Colchester, CO3 0SL or e-mail rebecca@colchesterzoo.org
Past Projects
Click on the links below to view titles of past research projects.
