Whole-carcass meals make zoo lions behave more like wild lions

Researchers at Adelaide University and Monarto Safari Park added whole carcasses every nine days to the feeding routine of three adult male African lions. Video monitoring showed the lions fed for nearly three times longer, rested more after meals, and gradually became more active during fasting periods. The resulting pattern closely matched the feast-and-fast rhythm seen in wild lions.

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The trial involved three adult male African lions at Monarto Safari Park. Keepers added whole carcasses at nine-day intervals to an existing routine with eating and fasting phases. During the test phase, about 200 kilograms were provided, and remains stayed available for up to three days before a digestion and rest interval. Eight infrared cameras recorded continuously for three months, allowing before-and-after comparisons.

Researchers also monitored pacing, a repetitive carnivore behavior often associated