Zoos are not inherently ‘bad’ in concept – until they neglect their animals
The Jacksonville Zoo, Florida, is a perfect example of what zoos should be
The recent death of Harambe, a Western Lowland Gorilla who was shot and killed to protect a child who had fallen into the enclosure, has reignited controversy over zoos.
Some believe zoos are abusive and an affront to animal rights, while others believe they help educate the public, conserve endangered species and protect injured animals. As a result of this debate, people view zoos in a polarized way, labeling them all as “good” or “bad.”
This issue isn’t so black-and-white. It’s as gray as an elephant’s ears.
Listed as one of the top 25 zoos in the U.S., The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens in Florida is a perfect example of a “good” zoo – or, what all zoos should be.
As the winner of the 2005 Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Exhibit of the Year award and a participant in over 50 conservation initiatives and 95 species survival plans, it’s clear that this zoo was not created just for profit but to make an impact.
Lorna and Kevin stand outside Lost Temple, an exhibit that features poison dart frogs, boa constrictors, pygmy marmosets and other animals
In addition to funding conservation and research, zoos raise public awareness of environmental issues and endangered species that many visitors would not know exist otherwise.
Two exhibits at The Jacksonville Zoo are the Plains of East Africa and the Australian Outback, both featuring animals from continents than many Floridians might never visit in their lifetimes.
While raising awareness of environments across the globe, the zoo also reminds guests of what’s in danger in their own backyard with its Wild Florida exhibit.
Visitors learn about plants and animals from all over the world without leaving the city
While some believe that zoos can do as they please with no regulations, many are held to high standards. The AZA states that zoos must meet their standards for, “animal management and care, including living environments, social groupings, health, and nutrition” in order to be accredited. The group ensures, “animals are provided with enrichment, which stimulates each animal’s natural behavior and provides variety in their daily routine.”
Approximately 10 percent of licensed U.S. animal exhibitors are accredited by the AZA. This raises the question not of whether zoos are right or wrong in concept, but if we are doing enough to make sure all zoos are held to the same set of regulations and that all zoo animals get the same quality of life and high level of treatment.
A symbol of tropical Florida, flamingos are featured in an exhibit at The Jacksonville Zoo
As Dr. Dave Hone told The Guardian, “…just as the fact that some police are corrupt does not mean we should not have people to enforce the law, although bad zoos or exhibits persist does not mean they are not worthwhile institutes.”
Zoos are not inherently “bad” in concept. They’re “bad” when they do not provide animals with what they deserve. Zoos with expansive, well-maintained exhibits and healthy, happy animals create a culture where guests become enthused about animal conservation and are more aware of the environment.
Because zoos do so much good for endangered and injured wildlife and their habitats, society shouldn’t aim to get rid of them as a whole. Rather, we should push to ensure that all zoos are held to the same standards and that all zoo animals are treated with respect.
Ben shows you’re never too old to poke fun at yourself
And besides, zoos are a lot of fun.