Hans is a biologist at the Arosa Bear Foundation, where he works in scientific management. He has been contributing his extensive expertise to us as an expert since July 2024 and makes a significant contribution to our animal welfare projects.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your field of expertise.
As a qualified agronomist ETH and Dr sc. nat University of Zurich, I worked in the development of economical and animal-friendly husbandry systems for livestock and species-appropriate enclosures for zoo animals. Until my retirement in 2021, I managed the animal care operations at Zurich Zoo.
What motivated you to get involved in your area of expertise?
My enjoyment of working with animals and bringing about a qualitative improvement in animal husbandry.
What do you think are the key challenges in your field that need to be addressed?
Understanding the natural behaviour of animals in an evolutionary way. Using this understanding to create the conditions in a husbandry system so that the animals kept there can fulfil their innate needs and are naturally occupied on a daily basis.
What makes you feel positive about our future? What are developments that our community should know about?
My nature always brings confidence. We must endeavour to keep the public aware of natural processes.