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.…

Rhesus monkeys getting treats from their caregiver at the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Healthy treats can include peanuts, grapes, apple slices, etc. Positive reinforcement is used to train the monkeys to move to transport boxes. These boxes safely carry monkeys to procedure rooms for blood draws, ultrasounds, TB tests, and…

These are common marmosets in the lobby of the Wisconsin National Primate Research Center. Dried fruit, grapes, peanuts and other "pocket treats" are provided by their caretakers. This helps provide enrichment and also facilitates the ability to do health checks and other routine care procedures.

Cancer is a complicated, devastating disease that has affected many lives.  New cancer treatments are continually developed because cancer cells change and resist treatment. Other treatments may work for one kind of cancer, but not another. New drugs must be evaluated in animals before they can be given to humans…

Mice are one of the most common animals needed for research.  Most mice do not usually get individual names...but sometimes a technician will develop a special bond with one of their mice, like the technician who named Noel.  Noel is a Swiss Webster mouse. Swiss Webster mice are often needed…

Positive reinforcement is used to train research animals to participate in essential studies. Here you see Beignet, a male rhesus macaque monkey, being rewarded as he voluntarily gets into a chair and then closes the door. These chairs are important to keep the animal safe and comfortable while also ensuring…