Visitor reaction to pacing behavior: influence on perceptions of animal care

Miller investigated how zoo visitors interpret stereotypic pacing, showing them footage of an animal pacing versus behaving normally and surveying their reactions. Visitors who saw pacing rated the animal's care and the institution less favourably and reported lower interest in supporting it. The study demonstrated that abnormal behaviour carries a reputational and conservation-funding cost beyond its welfare implications, giving institutions an additional, practical incentive to address stereotypy. It linked animal welfare to public perception and the educational and financial mission of zoos. For felids, among the most visible pacers, the findings reinforce that reducing stereotypic behaviour serves both the animals and the institution's standing with the visiting public.