Chester Zoo is launching a study on how zoos can benefit people's wellbeing, with visitors invited to share insights into their mood and connection to nature.
Scientists at the zoo are leading the global research project in partnership with Nottingham Trent University in a bid to understand how zoo visits affect people's mood, wellbeing and nature connectedness.
Over the next few weeks, Chester Zoo ticket-holders will receive emails asking them to take part in the study. Members and daily visitors can already scan a QR code on site to take part in the research.
Study designer Bridget Johnson, a Chester Zoo conservation scientist and Nottingham Trent University PhD candidate, said: "The people who take part are helping us understand what role zoos play in people’s connection to nature and their own wellbeing."
She added: "There is clear evidence that spending time in green and blue spaces like gardens and waterscapes, and social inclusion and engagement with nature, is beneficial to human wellbeing.
"Anecdotally, we know many visitors see themselves as part of a zoo community and value exploring zoo habitats. But there is very little research specifically into zoos, where these factors come together in a unique way."
Comparing how visitors feel before and after a trip to the zoo will reveal what zoos can do to support guests' wellbeing and nature connection.
How guests respond to zoo visits
The study is also being launched as zoos struggle post-pandemic and in the current cost-of-living crisis.
"It’s clear that if zoos are to survive, their value needs to be evidenced at every level, and this survey will give us hard data underpinned by a scientific foundation," said Johnson.
Earlier this year, Chester Zoo introduced a new programme designed to help visitors improve their wellbeing by immersing themselves in nature and around animals.
Highlights include "wild walks", buggy fitness sessions for parents, nature play activities, and immersive animal talks.
"Zoo animal welfare science has shone a light on how we can improve the lives of animals in zoos," said Samantha Ward, professor of zoo animal welfare and legislation at Nottingham Trent University.
"Now we really need the human data to show how zoos can also benefit society for human health and wellbeing and can offer more than just a good day out with family and friends."
The survey is currently live in the UK, Denmark, Finland and Holland. By the end of the study, Chester Zoo aims to have gathered responses from people across every continent where zoos operate.
Images courtesy of Chester Zoo
