ABSTRACT
This chapter covers the basic natural history of the genus; different behavioral management strategies for captive members of the genus Pan, including socialization, environmental enrichment, and positive reinforcement training (PRT); as well as additional issues related to the study and welfare of captive Pan spp. Introductions and reintroductions are highly meaningful events in a captive chimpanzee's life, and everything possible should be done to ensure that the behavioral management strategies employed would enhance the animal's well-being/welfare/wellness. In addition to treatments and sample collection, PRT can facilitate the extinction of undesirable and abnormal behaviors in chimpanzees. The use of PRT to address the health care requirements of individuals, especially older animals, has been a very successful component of the chimpanzee behavioral management program at the National Center for Chimpanzee Care (NCCC). Special topics and practices like weight management, geriatric care, and quality-of-life (QOL) program could easily be adapted for use with other nonhuman primate species, including bonobos.
