Meat Barrel Surprise
Type
Food-Based Enrichment
Animals
Best for large carnivores, but size can be modified for smaller carnivores
Food Extraction
Problem Solving
Behaviors
Predatory Behaviors
Why We Like It
We love this food-based cognitive enrichment because it's more challenging than the traditional carcass feeding. The hanging barrel hides the meat and the holes in the barrel allow the animal to smell and see part of the carcass. The animal has to figure out how to access the carcass from the opening at the bottom of the barrel.
Materials
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Large barrel
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Method for drilling holes in barrel
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Chain
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Carcass or piece of meat
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Method for securing chain to enclosure
How to Make It
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Drill various holes in the barrel. Ensure that there are two holes on opposite sides of the barrel towards the bottom.
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Thread the chain through one of the holes towards the bottom
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Secure the carcass onto the chain
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Thread the chain through the opposite hole on the bottom of the barrel
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Secure both ends of the chain to the enclosure
WildThink did not create and does not own any of the enrichment items shown on WildThink's enrichment database. Enrichment items are the property of their respective "sources", which can be found below the title of each enrichment item. WildThink is not responsible for any animal injuries or deaths that may occur whilst using enrichment found on WildThink's enrichment database. It is the responsibility of animal caretakers, managers, curators, and attending veterinarians to ensure that each enrichment item and the materials used to make the enrichment item are safe and suitable for an animal prior to use. WildThink is not liable for enrichment malfunctions.