citation_inspection: 33431

Shelter from Inclement Weather ***The bear repeatedly went to stand or lie next to its den after feeding, but was locked out of the den area. The owner is injured and cannot lift the guillotine gate without assistance because it is in disrepair. The enclosure must reliably provide den access for this species, which uses dens in it natural habitat. In addition, the den design is inappropriate. The metal pipe construction does not possess sufficient insulating properties for this tropical species, and the lack of bedding exacerbates this issue. Bedding provides a soft substrate as well as insulation, and is particularly important for bears because of their motivation to build nests and line dens. Failure to provide appropriately furnished dens may result in frustration of motivated behavior, and inability to behaviorally thermoregulate. The bear must have access to an appropriately designed den and bedding that meets its species specific needs. This was corrected on the second day of inspection, but a long term and effective method of correction will be required in the future. ***The pasture containing three Painted sheep has only one calf hutch for shelter, which cannot accommodate all three sheep at the same time. ***The arctic fox enclosure has one shelter which is not large enough to house both foxes at the same time. Lack of adequate access to shelter can cause adverse effects from exposure to detrimental weather conditions. Appropriate shelters with enough space to house all animals within the enclosures must be provided. ***The fallow deer enclosure has only two-sided shelters that cannot adequately protect from wind or precipitation. In addition, there are holes and sharp edges in the shelter divider. ***The mouflon shelter has only two sides, and cannot adequately protect from wind or precipitation. In addition, the shelter has gaps and loose boards. Failure to protect animals from detrimental weather conditions can negatively impact their health and ability to fight disease. Appropriately constructed shelters must be provided. ***The cougar has no bedding in its den. Bedding provides a soft substrate as well as insulation and is particularly important for this animal since it is slightly underweight and has mobility issues. Soft bedding helps thinner animals stay warm in colder weather, and can help reduce discomfort associated with mobility issues. An appropriate type and amount of bedding must be provided in the cougar den. ***The raccoon has no bedding in its den. Bedding provides a soft substrate, as well as insulation in colder weather. An appropriate type and amount of bedding must be provided for the raccoon.