Posted:Â April 29, 2025

Gabrielle Clark (BSc'21, MSc'24) is a research and compliance specialist at the Toronto Zoo, and a researcher in animal behaviour, neurobiology and welfare—particularly of fur animals. She also contributes to the Meagher Animal Behaviour and Welfare Research Group at Dal.
Clark’s latest research explores whether improving the perinatal environment of farmed American mink can enhance maternal behaviour and welfare outcomes. While the findings show potential for specific welfare improvements, they also highlight challenges in addressing the broader limitations of captive environments for nest-building carnivores. Further research on enriched whelping conditions could inform whether these interventions improve kits’ long-term ability to cope with stressors. Read .