Animals in Research

Baby rhesus getting mini marshmallow treat

Location: Wisconsin, USA
Group: Primates
Species: Rhesus macaque
Research Areas: AIDS, Behavioral research, Cancer, Drug development, Genetic diseases, Infectious disease, Malaria, Safety and efficacy testing, Vaccine development, Zika virus

Environmental enrichment is an important part of caring for research animals. Research animals are provided with several types of enrichment to stimulate species-typical behaviors. These juvenile rhesus macaques are enjoying mini marshmallow treats. Interactions with their caregiver give them social and intellectual stimulation, while strengthening their bonds with each other. Treats are also hidden in toys to stimulate the natural foraging drive in these animals. And they are socially housed, which is critical for these troop animals.