Play, Swim, Thrive

Preface

Introduction

Chapter 1: Understanding Dolphin Behavior and Ecology 1. The Natural World of Dolphins 2. Social Structures and Communication 3. Foraging Strategies and Predatory Tactics 4. Cognitive Abilities and Problem-Solving Skills 5. Implications of Natural Behaviors for Enrichment

Chapter 2: The Science of Enrichment 1. Defining Animal Enrichment: Goals and Principles 2. The Five Domains Model of Animal Welfare 3. Behavioral Enrichment vs. Environmental Modification 4. Evidence-Based Practices in Enrichment Design 5. Measuring the Impact of Enrichment on Dolphin Welfare

Chapter 3: Designing Effective Enrichment Programs 1. Needs Assessment: Identifying Behavioral Priorities 2. Customizing Enrichment for Individual Dolphins 3. Incorporating Social, Cognitive, and Physical Elements 4. Addressing Challenges in Environments of Human Care 5. Seasonal and Life-Stage Considerations

Chapter 4: Sensory Enrichment for Dolphins 1. The Role of Echolocation in Enrichment Design 2. Visual Stimuli: Color, Shape, and Movement 3. Auditory Enrichment: Natural and Artificial Sounds 4. Tactile Stimulation: Textures and Contact Opportunities 5. Scent and Taste: Exploring Unconventional Sensory Inputs

Chapter 5: Physical Enrichment and Habitat Design 1. Optimizing Space for Swimming, Diving, and Resting 2. Structures and Substrates: Creating Dynamic Environments 3. The Role of Water Flow and Depth Variability 4. Interactive Habitat Features: Ropes, Buoys, and Platforms 5. Environmental Complexity and Its Impact on Behavior

Chapter 6: Cognitive and Social Enrichment 1. Problem-Solving Challenges: Puzzles and Games 2. Encouraging Natural Foraging Behaviors 3. Facilitating Social Interactions Among Dolphins 4. The Importance of Novelty and Variation in Enrichment 5. Mitigating Stress Through Cognitive Engagement

Chapter 7: Human Interaction as Enrichment 1. The Role of Training in Enrichment Programs 2. Ethical Considerations in Human-Dolphin Interaction 3. Structured Play and Its Psychological Benefits 4. Education and Outreach Activities Involving Dolphins 5. Balancing Human Interaction with Autonomous Exploration

Chapter 8: Monitoring and Evaluating Enrichment Success 1. Behavioral Indicators of Engagemen