Zoochosis is a term used to describe the abnormal behavior that animals in captivity exhibit due to the stress of their environment. This behavior can include pacing, rocking, self-mutilation, and even cannibalism.
One of the most common examples of zoochosis is seen in penguins. In the wild, penguins live in large colonies and spend their days swimming, hunting, and socializing. However, in captivity, penguins are often kept in small enclosures with little to do. This lack of stimulation can lead to boredom and frustration, which can manifest itself in a variety of abnormal behaviors.
