zoos history essay

History of Zoos: Past, Present & Future (incl. Timeline)

Published by michael anderson on november 7, 2023 november 7, 2023.

During the history of zoos, zoological institutions have long stood as a testament to humanity’s enduring fascination with the natural world. Today, they serve as a nexus where education , conservation , and research converge, offering a glimpse into the lives of species that many might never see in the wild.

The journey of zoos from royal showpieces to modern conservation centers is a story of transformation and adaptation.

The History of Zoos: A Brief Overview

The origin of zoos, ancient civilizations and their menageries (2500 bce), greek and roman animal collections (500 bce – 500 ce), the middle ages to the renaissance, royal menageries as status symbols (1200s), the public’s introduction to exotic wildlife (1500s), the birth of modern zoos, the enlightenment and the rise of scientific zoos (1752), the proliferation of zoos in the 19th century (1828), the evolution of zoo design, the victorian era and the cage (1840s-90s), revolutionizing enclosures: the hagenbeck model (early 1900s), zoos in the 20th century, the world wars: a time of hardship for zoos (1915-1945), the post-war era: a new focus on conservation (1940s-50s), the role of zoos in research and conservation, breeding programs for endangered species (late 1900s), zoos as centers for wildlife research, ethical considerations and animal welfare, the debate over captivity, advancements in animal care, zoos in the 21st century, embracing technology for conservation (21st century), interactive and immersive exhibits, the future of zoos, supporting wildlife in their natural habitats, zoos and global biodiversity strategies, history of zoos – faqs, what is the origin of zoological gardens, how did ancient empires contribute to the development of zoos, when did zoos become accessible to the public.

Zoos have transitioned from ancient displays of power to centers for conservation and education. The Enlightenment sparked a shift towards scientific study, leading to the creation of the first modern zoos in the 19th century.

Design innovations like naturalistic habitats have replaced Victorian cages, focusing on animal welfare and enriching the visitor experience. Post-World War conservation efforts have positioned zoos as leaders in species preservation and research.

Modern zoos integrate technology for enhanced animal care and visitor engagement. They are pivotal in global conservation, aiming to sustain biodiversity and support wildlife in their natural environments. The evolution of zoos reflects a growing commitment to protecting and understanding our planet’s wildlife.

Year	Zoo Era
2500 BCE	Ancient Egyptians keep wild animals, beginning the concept of zoos.
500 BCE – 500 CE	Greek and Roman empires use zoos for entertainment and power displays.
1200s	Royal menageries, like the Tower of London, become popular in Europe.
1500s	Renaissance sees some menageries opening to the public for education.
1752	The Vienna Zoo, the oldest existing zoo, is established for scientific study.
1828	The London Zoo opens, marking the transition to modern public zoos.
Early 1900s	Carl Hagenbeck revolutionizes zoo design with naturalistic habitats.
1940s-50s	World Wars impact zoos; post-war era sees a shift to conservation focus.
Late 1900s	Zoos expand their role in breeding programs and wildlife research.
21st Century	Zoos employ technology for conservation and interactive education.
Present	Zoos work globally on biodiversity strategies and in-situ conservation.

The origin of zoos is deeply rooted in the grandeur of ancient civilizations, where the collection of exotic animals was a pursuit of the powerful. These early zoos were a blend of spectacle, science, and status.

The earliest zoos can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where rulers would amass collections of exotic animals to display their wealth and power. In Egypt, pharaohs kept wild creatures as part of elaborate gardens, and hieroglyphs depict the collection of wild beasts from across the empire.

the beginning of the history of zoos during ancient civilizations

Similarly, in ancient China, emperors maintained grand menageries as part of their palatial complexes, showcasing their dominion over nature.

The Greeks and Romans continued this tradition, with animals playing a central role in their culture and mythology. Zoos during this era were not just about displaying power; they were also about understanding the animal kingdom.

Philosophers like Aristotle studied animals for scientific purposes, and his writings indicate a rudimentary approach to zoology.

During the Middle Ages, the keeping of exotic animals became a symbol of royal privilege. The Tower of London’s menagerie, established in the 13th century, included a range of animals from lions to elephants, often received as gifts from other monarchs and explorers.

By the Renaissance, these collections began to transition from private curiosities to public spectacles. The Medici family’s menagerie in Florence was one of the first to allow public access, setting the stage for the zoos that would follow.

The Age of Enlightenment, a period marked by a surge in intellectual and scientific progress, fundamentally altered the way humans interacted with the natural world. It was during this era that the concept of the zoo began to align more closely with the ideals of study and preservation rather than mere spectacle.

The Vienna Zoo , founded in 1752, was part of this movement, focusing on scientific research and the classification of species. As the world’s oldest existing zoo, it was initially part of the imperial menagerie at Schönbrunn Palace, intended for the scientific study of the animal kingdom.

The zoo was a pioneer in the movement to observe animals not as curiosities but as subjects worthy of study. It facilitated the classification of species, a task that became increasingly important as explorers and naturalists brought knowledge of new creatures from around the globe. For example, it was during this time that scientists found out that fish have brains ; something that surpised many people at that time.

The 19th century saw an explosion in the number of zoos. The opening of the London Zoo in 1828 marked a significant evolution in the concept of zoos. Unlike its predecessors, the London Zoo was established by the Zoological Society of London with a clear scientific mandate.

Initially, it served as a collection for scientific study, only accessible to members of the society and their guests. However, recognizing the educational potential, it soon opened its doors to the public.

It signaled a shift from the exclusive menageries of royalty and the elite to public institutions with a broader societal role. The zoo became a place where education, research, and leisure converged, allowing people from all walks of life to engage with and learn about the animal world. This was a time when many cities across Europe and North America began establishing their own zoos, often inspired by the model of the London Zoo.

The Victorian era was characterized by a utilitarian approach to zoo design, with animals kept in cages for the ease of the public. This period saw the construction of many of the world’s oldest surviving zoos, but the welfare of the animals was secondary to the display. Overall, the 1840s-90s marked a cruel era in the history of zoos. Animal abuse was completely common and accepted.

But don’t think that we are treating animals much better today. In fact, animal abuse in zoos is still common.

Carl Hagenbeck , a German animal trader and showman, revolutionized zoo design at the turn of the 20th century. He introduced spacious, open-air enclosures with naturalistic landscapes, a stark contrast to the barred cages of the past. This model emphasized the well-being of the animals and improved the visitor experience.

open-air animal enclosures - a unique era in the history of zoos

The world wars brought significant challenges to zoos, with many struggling to feed and care for their animals amid the chaos. Bombings and resource shortages led to the loss of many animals, and some zoos were forced to close. Due to the world wars, more than 80% of zoo animals died in European zoos alone; a destruction that has never been like that in the long history of zoos.

the histroy of zoos included their complete destruction during the world wars

After the wars, zoos began to shift their focus from mere exhibition to conservation and education. Thus, this marked the beginning of ethical considerations for the first time in the history of zoos. The arrival of pandas in Western zoos and the subsequent public interest in these animals highlighted the potential role of zoos in global conservation efforts.

Zoos have become sanctuaries for endangered species , with breeding programs aimed at preserving genetic diversity and bolstering wild populations; a novety in the history of zoos. The success stories are numerous, from the recovery of the California Condor to the reintroduction of the Arabian Oryx .

Beyond breeding, zoos serve as living laboratories for wildlife research. They contribute to our understanding of animal behavior, physiology, and genetics, often in collaboration with universities and research institutions.

zoos are an important resource for research

The ethics of zoos are hotly debated. Simply put, there are pros and cons of zoos .

Critics of zoos argue that confining animals to enclosures, regardless of size or quality, deprives them of their natural behaviors and habitats, leading to physical and psychological distress. They contend that the very nature of captivity is at odds with the animals’ inherent right to freedom and that the educational value of zoos does not justify this confinement.

Plus, they use the worst zoos of America to showcase examples of the poor conditions that animals have to live under, still today.

a tiger laying unhappily on the ground of his cage in a zoo - animal cruelty is a big part of the history of zoos

On the other side of the debate, proponents of zoos assert that modern zoos play a vital role in the conservation of species , many of which are threatened or endangered in the wild. They argue that zoos provide a sanctuary for breeding programs, research, and rehabilitation, which can lead to reintroduction into natural habitats. Furthermore, zoos are seen as critical in educating the public about wildlife and environmental issues, fostering a connection between humans and animals that can inspire conservation efforts on a broader scale.

In response to these debates, zoos have made significant advancements in animal care. They now prioritize naturalistic habitats, social enrichment, and mental stimulation to ensure the well-being of the animals in their care.

However, this is unfortunately mostly the case in developed countries only as there continue to be welfare concerns regarding zoos in developing countries.

For the first time in the history of zoos, modern zoos employ technology in innovative ways, from tracking animal health with sophisticated software to engaging visitors through interactive exhibits and mobile apps.

Digital tracking systems monitor everything from dietary intake to breeding cycles, allowing for precise management of individual animal care. These systems also facilitate the sharing of valuable data across global conservation networks, aiding in the management of species populations worldwide.

Remote monitoring technologies enable zookeepers to observe animals without intruding on their daily activities, minimizing stress and allowing for a more naturalistic behavior pattern. Additionally, genetic databases and biobanking play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation , providing resources for research and potential future reintroduction programs.

On the visitor front, zoos have adopted interactive technology to enhance educational outreach. Mobile apps can provide a multimedia tour, offering information about the animals, conservation status, and zoo initiatives at the touch of a screen. Today, you can install an animal identifier app and find out what kind of animal you have in front of you, simply by using the camera of your phone. These apps often include gamification elements, such as scavenger hunts and quizzes, to engage younger audiences in wildlife education.

However, there’s still criticism about zoos today. For example, the animal rights organization PETA publicly communicated their negative opinion about zoos. In the end they received a wave of hate for this …

The use of augmented and virtual reality in zoos provides visitors with immersive experiences that are both educational and entertaining, without disrupting the animals’ lives. This is a novety in the history of zoos. These technologies are truly changing the way how zoological institutions operate and have become one of the top alternatives to traditional zoos .

AR experiences can overlay digital information onto the real-world environment, allowing visitors to see the layers of an animal’s habitat or even simulate interactions with animals in a controlled and safe manner. For example, visitors might use an AR device to watch a virtual elephant roam through the savannah, while in reality, the elephant is comfortably resting in its enclosure.

a child using virtual reality glasses to learn about zoo animals in a playful way

Virtual reality takes this a step further by immersing visitors in a completely digital world. Through VR headsets, individuals can experience lifelike simulations of natural environments from the perspective of an animal , or dive into underwater ecosystems without getting wet. These experiences can be particularly powerful in conveying conservation messages, as they allow visitors to witness the impact of human activity on natural habitats in a visceral and impactful way.

As we look to the future, the role of zoos is set to evolve beyond the confines of their physical locations. The emphasis is shifting towards a holistic approach to conservation, with zoos playing a pivotal role in supporting wildlife in their natural habitats. This involves a multifaceted strategy that includes in-situ conservation efforts, such as habitat preservation and restoration, which are crucial for the survival of many species.

Zoos are increasingly involved in field conservation projects that protect the ecosystems of the animals they house. This can take the form of direct financial support, expertise in wildlife management, and research that informs habitat conservation strategies. For instance, many zoos participate in reforestation projects to rebuild the natural habitats of endangered species, allowing for a more sustainable approach to conservation.

Breeding programs in zoos are becoming more sophisticated, with a focus on reintroducing animals to the wild where possible. This requires not only breeding animals in captivity but also ensuring that they are capable of surviving and thriving in their natural environment. Zoological institutions, such as zoos and aquariums in California, are also working to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts in natural habitats, promoting coexistence through community education and innovative solutions.

Zoos are becoming key players in the implementation of global biodiversity strategies while the impact of climate change is becoming increasingly worrying. They contribute to the achievement of targets set by international agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By participating in these global efforts, zoos help to address critical issues such as habitat loss, climate change, and species extinction.

The expertise and resources of zoos are invaluable in efforts to monitor and protect biodiversity. They serve as repositories of genetic material, which can be crucial for restoring genetic diversity in wild populations. Zoos also engage in research that advances our understanding of diseases, reproductive biology, and animal behavior, all of which are essential for effective conservation planning.

Furthermore, zoos are uniquely positioned to educate the public about global biodiversity issues . Through immersive exhibits and educational programs, they can raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the threats it faces. This educational role is vital in fostering a conservation ethic among the public, encouraging behavior change and support for conservation initiatives.

Zoological gardens evolved from menageries, with the oldest known collection dating back to around 3500 BCE in Hierakonpolis, Egypt. This collection included a variety of exotic animals such as hippopotami, elephants, and wildcats.

Throughout history, many rulers maintained collections of animals. Notable examples include King Solomon, Queen Semiramis, and King Nebuchadnezzar. These collections often symbolized power and wealth. The Greek city-states and Roman emperors also kept collections of animals, some for study and others for entertainment in arenas.

The concept of public zoological gardens emerged in the 18th century. One of the earliest examples is the Tiergarten Schönbrunn in Vienna, Austria, which opened in 1752 and became accessible to the public in 1765. The London Zoo, which opened in 1828, was among the first to be established with the intention of providing access to the general public for education and entertainment.

Michael Anderson

Michael is a dedicated veterinarian and the owner of a thriving animal hospital. With a passion for animal welfare, he sees himself as an ambassador for animals, advocating for their health and well-being. Michael regularly publishes expert articles on a variety of animal health topics, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with a broader audience. His writings are a valuable resource for pet owners and animal lovers, offering insights into best practices for animal care. Through his work at the hospital and his contributions to the field of veterinary science, Michael is committed to enhancing the lives of animals and promoting compassionate care.

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How did zoos develop

Increasingly, modern zoos today are not just seen as a place to see local and exotic animals, but they are treated as places of conservation. However, we can see that in relatively recent history that was not the case, as many older zoos have display areas and cages that clearly were intended to simply display animals to a curious public. The history of zoos has changed, from one of limited display to upper society, to one that was accessible to many. Furthermore, the importance of the animals and how they were seen has changed.

Development of the Concept of a Zoo

In the period of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, from the 9th to 7th centuries BC, lions were being kept in enclosures and often were depicted in wall reliefs. What may have differed in some of these enclosures is there seems to have been an attempt to also reconstruct the ecosystem in which lions and tigers existed. Sennacherib, king of Assyria from 704 – 682 BC, created a marsh-like environment and garden in his royal city of Nineveh that not only contained exotic plants but also was intended to recreate the marsh and wider environment of certain animal species (Figure 1). [2]

In China, during the Zhou Dynasty between 2000-1000 BC, parks were created that had walled enclosures that also kept a menagerie of animals. In the Han Dynasty, late in the 1st millennium BC (around 200 BC), records indicate private menageries were kept, where animals included birds, bears, tigers, alligators, rhinoceroses, deer, and elephants. This was similar to Neo-Assyrian gardens and animal enclosures that replicated the environment, similar in many ways to Assyria. [3]

In ancient Greece, private menageries were also known. The most famous was the one owned by Aristotle. Here, he kept a variety of animals for study. In fact, it was this menagerie that led to the first book dedicated to studying animals, called The History of Animals , written in the 4th century BC. While Aristotle used his own collection of animals, he also observed animals in the wild such as in the island of Lesbos. [4]

Rise of Zoos

What the Roman period shows is that animals were now beginning to be seen not just as wonderment for the wealthy or powerful, but now animals were beginning to be shown in more public settings and displayed for their wonder and power. While clearly animals were often treated with cruelty, the period of Rome also began a process where people increasingly came into closer contact with wild animals and those that were very exotic.

Modern Development

The oldest known zoo today is the Tiergarten Schönbrunn in Vienna, which was once a royal lion park. However, it was made a public park and zoo by emperor Francis I. This public park and zoo became popular and soon other locations in Europe gained interest in having their own public zoos. Madrid and Paris soon followed in the late 18th century, while a zoo in Russia was founded in 1806 to scientifically study animals. By the early 19th century, the concept of public display, to satisfy public interest, and scientific study had emerged as being central concepts in zoos. [7]

The London Zoo in Regent's Park, founded in 1828, began to become the symbol of what a modern zoo should look like. It was the first zoo dedicated to the public and science, which made it different than the earlier zoos that often separated these ideas of public display and scientific research. The design of the zoo also revolved around large crowds viewing animals, thus wide walking areas and larger cages were created so that more people can see the animals. In effect, it was the first zoo to be purposely designed for the wider public. The first public glass house and apiary for birds were also opened at the zoo. [8]

With few exceptions, for centuries animals were kept for the privy of royalty or powerful individuals in society. However, this began to change more substantially by the 18th century and the rate of public interest increased in having zoos in the 19th century. This increased contact, and changes in attitude, led to a refocus of many zoos today toward conservation efforts. Zoos are still often criticized for poor treatment of animals or even keeping exotic animals in environments very different from those where they naturally live. However, many zoos today have begun to integrate research and conservation efforts that also help the welfare of animals in the regions where they come from, particularly in South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, where habitat loss has increased substantially.

Maltaweel , Admin and EricLambrecht

Rambling Thoughts On The History Of Zoos

In this essay the author, who has spent time as both a zoo keeper and curator, provides a critical look at the (unflattering) history of zoos as well as their current state. The focus of present-day zoos centers around two topics—conservation and animal collections—and in terms of the latter, the author posits that zoos offer a skewed representation of the animal kingdom to the masses.

[Abstract excerpted from original source.]

“Zoo animal collections have gone through a variety of changes in recent decades. While an increasing number of species may be establishing self-sustainable populations, early specimens of some animal groups were captured and transported in wasteful and unacceptable methods, a part of history that should not be forgotten. Selection of species has shifted from individual to group decision-making processes, reflecting a different type of personnel now in charge. The fact remains, however, that zoos continue to present a popularity-driven, skewed representation of the animal kingdom to the public. Wildlife conservation has been one of the main purposes for zoos as well as zoo associations, both in Europe and America. In actuality, the concept of conservation is subject to individual interpretation and this is where a clear definition of the zoos’ role could become rather vague. An important and worthwhile task for zoos is conservation education. To counteract deep-rooted anthropomorphism in the public’s mind is not easy, yet it is a necessary step to raise citizens’ environmental awareness. The ultimate results of conservation education include changing daily habits, as well as participation in grass-roots conservation movements, by citizens.”

Ken Kawata, Der Zoologische Garten, 2013

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Can Zoos Be Redeemed?

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The History Of Animal Welfare In U.S. Zoos & Aquariums

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The Parallels Between Zoos And Prisons

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Zoos May Reinforce Conservation Mindedness, But Not Create It

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Zoos Face a Crisis of Conscience

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Public Agrees That Visiting Zoos And Aquariums Helps People Appreciate Animals More

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Visitor Behavior In Zoos: A Review

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The Public Face Of Zoos: Images Of Entertainment, Education And Conservation

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2010 Top Ten Worst Zoos For Elephants

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What Are Zoos For?

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The Educative Influence Of Zoos On Their Visitors In India

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Zoos: History and Rescue of Endangered Animals

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Introduction and Brief Analysis

The History of Animal Captivity in Zoos

Why should we save endangered species.

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Zoos: Protection for Endangered Species Pages: 2 (322 words)
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The Problem of Conservation of Endangered Species Of Animals Pages: 4 (963 words)
Endangered animals: Sumatran Rhinos Pages: 2 (515 words)
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History of Zoos and Aquariums: From Royal Gifts to Biodiversity

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Neil Bemment, History of Zoos and Aquariums: From Royal Gifts to Biodiversity, Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society , Volume 175, Issue 4, 1 December 2015, Page 963, https://doi.org/10.1111/zoj.12216

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Anyone who attended this international symposium hosted by Chester Zoo in 2011 as part of their 80 th anniversary and subtitled ‘ Conservation: History and Development of Menageries, Zoos and Aquariums ’, will no doubt see the meeting come alive again when they browse through these proceedings.

Indeed there are many books on the history of individual zoos and on the ethos of zoos and like-minded institutions, but as an extremely useful quick reference of landmark dates and a potted history of the global zoo movement, this slim 158 page publication takes some beating. The four sections are well balanced and chart the development of zoos and aquariums through the ages from their menagerie and sideshow beginnings in some cases, to their leading role in present day conservation and education.

As one who has worked in the zoo business for over 3o years I particularly enjoyed the historical accounts and images of certain extinct 19 th century zoos, like Brighton Zoological Gardens and Broughton Zoo. While they have the somewhat surreal charm of a bygone age, they also illustrate how far the pioneering zoos and zoo associations of today have come. The contributions by Pat Morris on the historical link between museums and zoos, along with that of Ian Trowell on the little known Bostock's ‘Sheffield Jungle’ make for particularly fascinating reading, leaving one with a sense of disbelief at the thinking of the day.

The general layout is easy on the eye and the photo ‘biopics’ of the authors a nice additional touch to each paper, so unlike many proceedings this is not just a ‘dry’ account of what must have been a very engaging symposium. On the contrary, with the numerous and diverse references at the end of each contributory paper, anyone interested in the cultural development of zoological collections has plenty to follow up on. Congratulations to Chester Zoo and its partners on a job well done.

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Are Zoos Ethical? Arguments for and Against Keeping Animals in Zoos

Zoos, if done right, could be a good thing for the animals and the public—yet many so-called zoos get it terribly wrong.

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A Brief History of Zoos

Arguments for zoos, arguments against zoos, the last word on zoos.

A zoo is a place where captive animals are put on display for humans to see. While early zoos (shortened from zoological parks) concentrated on displaying as many unusual creatures as possible—often in small, cramped conditions—the focus of most modern zoos is conservation and education. While zoo advocates and conservationists argue that zoos save endangered species and educate the public, many animal rights activists believe the cost of confining animals outweighs the benefits, and that the violation of the rights of individual animals—even in efforts to fend off extinction—cannot be justified. Let's dive into whether zoos are ethical and if they truly encourage education and conservation.

Humans have kept wild animals for thousands of years. The first efforts to keep wild animals for non-utilitarian uses began about 2,500 BCE, when rulers in Mesopotamia, Egypt kept collections in enclosed pens. Modern zoos began to evolve during the 18th century and the Age of Enlightenment when scientific interest in zoology and the study of animal behavior and anatomy came to the fore.

Early zoos were a dismal affair. Animals were kept in small enclosures with little if any, greenery. With a scant understanding of what the various animals needed, many perished relatively quickly. In accredited zoos in the United States and globally, things are better. Primates have gone from barren cages with little furniture to naturalistic and sometimes semi-free-ranging designs. But is it enough?

By bringing people and animals together, zoos educate the public and foster an appreciation of other species.
Zoos save endangered species by bringing them into a safe environment for protection from poachers , habitat loss, starvation, and predators.
Many zoos have breeding programs for endangered species . In the wild, these individuals might have trouble finding mates and breeding, and species could become extinct.
Some zoos have conservation programs around the world that use the zoo's expertise and funding to help protect wildlife against poaching and other threats.
Reputable zoos accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums are held to high standards for the treatment of their resident animals. According to AZA, its accreditation guarantees the organization has undergone strict evaluation by recognized experts to ensure the highest standards of "animal management and care, including living environments, social groupings, health, and nutrition."
A good zoo provides an enriched habitat where the animals are never bored, are well cared for, and have plenty of space.
Seeing an animal in person is a much more personal and memorable experience than seeing that animal in a nature documentary. People are more likely to foster an empathetic attitude toward animals.
Some zoos help rehabilitate wildlife and take in exotic pets that people no longer want or can no longer care for.
Both accredited and unaccredited animal exhibitors are regulated by the federal Animal Welfare Act, which establishes standards for animal care.
From an animal rights standpoint, humans do not have a right to breed, capture, and confine other animals— even if those species are endangered . Being a member of an endangered species doesn't mean the individual animals should be afforded fewer rights.
Animals in captivity suffer from boredom, stress, and confinement. No pen—no matter how humane—or drive-through safari can compare to the freedom of the wild .
Intergenerational bonds are broken when individuals are sold or traded to other zoos.
Baby animals bring in visitors and money, but this incentive to breed new babies leads to overpopulation. Surplus animals are sold to other zoos, circuses , and hunting facilities . Some zoos simply kill their surplus animals outright.
Some captive breeding programs do not release animals back into the wild . The offspring may be forever part of the chain of zoos, circuses, and petting zoos .
Removing individual specimens from the wild further endangers the wild population because the remaining individuals will be less genetically diverse and may have greater difficulty finding mates. Maintaining species diversity within captive breeding facilities is also challenging.
If people want to see wild animals in real life, they can observe wildlife in the wild or visit a sanctuary . (A true sanctuary does not buy, sell, or breed animals, but instead takes in unwanted exotic pets, surplus animals from zoos, or injured wildlife that can no longer survive in the wild.)
The federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA) establishes minimal standards for cage size, shelter, healthcare, ventilation, fencing, food, and water. For example, enclosures must provide "sufficient space to allow each animal to make normal postural and social adjustments with adequate freedom of movement. Inadequate space may be indicated by evidence of malnutrition, poor condition, debility, stress, or abnormal behavior patterns." Violations often result in a slap on the wrist and the exhibitor is given a deadline to correct the violation. Even a long history of inadequate care and AWA violations, such as the history of Tony the Truck Stop Tiger, does not necessarily ensure abused animals will be freed.
Animals sometimes escape their enclosures, endangering themselves as well as people. Likewise, people ignore warnings or accidentally get too close to animals, leading to horrific outcomes. For example, Harambe, a 17-year-old western lowland gorilla , was shot in 2016 when a toddler accidentally fell into his enclosure at the Cincinnati Zoo . While the child survived and was not badly injured, the gorilla was killed outright.
Petting zoos have been linked with numerous incidents of diseases including E. coli infection, cryptosporidiosis, salmonellosis, and dermatomycosis (ringworm).

In making a case for or against zoos and whether zoos are ethical, both sides argue that they're saving animals. Whether or not zoos benefit the animal community, they do make money. As long as demand remains, zoos will continue to exist.

Since zoos are likely inevitable, the best way to move forward is to ensure zoo conditions are the best possible for the animals that live in captivity and that individuals who violate animal care health and safety sanctions are not only duly punished but denied any future access to animals.

One day we may look back at zoos and marvel at their barbarity. Or, one day we may look back at zoos and be grateful for the species they saved from extinction. Of these two scenarios, only time will tell.

Hosey, Geoff, et al. Zoo Animals: Behaviour, Management, and Welfare . Oxford University Press. 2013.

Hosey, G. (2023). The History of Primates in Zoos . In: Robinson, L.M., Weiss, A. (eds) Nonhuman Primate Welfare. Springer, Cham.

“ Species Survival Plan Programs .” Association of Zoos & Aquariums.

“ Accreditation Basics .” Association of Zoos & Aquariums .

“ Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare Regulations .” U.S. Department of Agriculture .

Meagher, Rebecca K., Georgia J. Mason. “ Environmental Enrichment Reduces Signs of Boredom in Caged Mink .” PLoS ONE , vol. 7, 2012, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0049180

Kleiman, Devra G., et al. Wild Mammals In Captivity: Principles And Techniques For Zoo Management, Second Edition . University of Chicago Press. 2010.

Gunasekera, Crystal Allen. “ The Ethics of Killing “Surplus” Zoo Animals .” Journal of Animal Ethics , vol. 8, 2018, doi:10.5406/janimalethics.8.1.0093

Brichieri-Colombi, Typhenn A., et al. “ Limited Contributions of Released Animals from Zoos to North American Conservation Translocations .” Conservation Biology , vol. 33, 2019, pp. 33-39., doi:10.1111/cobi.13160

Krasnec, Michelle O., et al. “ Mating Systems in Sexual Animals .” Nature Education Knowledge, vol. 3, no. 10, 2012, p. 72.

“ 9 CFR § 3.128 - Space Requirements .” Cornell University Legal Information Institute .

“ Animal Welfare Act Enforcement .” U.S. Department of Agriculture .

Conrad, Cheyenne C. Conrad et al. " Farm Fairs and Petting Zoos: A Review of Animal Contact as a Source of Zoonotic Enteric Disease ." Foodborne Pathogens and Disease, vol. 14, 2017, pp. 59-73., doi:10.1089/fpd.2016.2185

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100 Zoo Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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Zoos are fascinating places that offer a unique opportunity to observe and learn about a wide variety of animals from all over the world. If you're tasked with writing an essay about zoos, you might be struggling to come up with a topic that is both interesting and informative. To help you out, here are 100 zoo essay topic ideas and examples that you can use as inspiration for your next assignment:

The ethical implications of keeping animals in zoos
The role of zoos in conservation efforts
The impact of zoos on animal behavior
The history of zoos and how they have evolved over time
The benefits of zoos for education and research
The controversy surrounding captive breeding programs in zoos
The importance of zoos in preserving endangered species
The challenges of managing a zoo and caring for its animals
The role of zoos in promoting awareness of wildlife conservation issues
The impact of zoos on local communities and economies
The role of zoos in promoting animal welfare and ethics
The debate over whether zoos should exist in the modern world
The cultural significance of zoos in different societies
The impact of climate change on zoos and their animal populations
The role of zoos in public education and outreach programs
The challenges of balancing conservation efforts with visitor experiences in zoos
The impact of captivity on animal behavior and well-being in zoos
The role of zoos in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability
The ethics of using animals in zoo entertainment shows and performances
The impact of zoos on biodiversity and ecosystem health
The role of zoos in promoting animal rights and welfare legislation
The impact of zoo closures and budget cuts on animal populations
The challenges of reintroducing captive-bred animals into the wild
The role of zoos in supporting local wildlife conservation efforts
The benefits of zoos for public health and well-being
The impact of zoos on visitor attitudes towards wildlife conservation
The role of zoos in promoting sustainable tourism practices
The challenges of managing invasive species in zoos
The impact of zoo design and architecture on animal welfare
The role of zoos in promoting cultural exchange and understanding
The benefits of zoos for scientific research and discovery
The impact of zoo accreditation programs on animal welfare standards
The challenges of breeding endangered species in captivity
The role of zoos in promoting animal enrichment and mental stimulation
The ethics of using animals in zoo breeding programs
The impact of zoos on local ecosystems and biodiversity
The role of zoos in promoting public awareness of wildlife trafficking
The benefits of zoos for educating children about conservation
The challenges of managing a zoo during a pandemic
The impact of zoo closures on animal welfare and conservation efforts
The role of zoos in promoting sustainable food and waste management practices
The ethics of using animals in zoo education programs
The impact of zoos on wildlife populations in surrounding areas
The challenges of managing zoo populations and genetics
The role of zoos in promoting animal welfare legislation
The benefits of zoos for promoting public engagement with wildlife
The impact of zoos on local economies and tourism
The role of zoos in promoting wildlife rehabilitation and release programs
The challenges of managing zoo populations in the face of climate change
The ethics of using animals in zoo research and experimentation
The impact of zoos on animal behavior and social dynamics
The role of zoos in promoting public awareness of wildlife conservation issues
The benefits of zoos for promoting sustainable tourism practices

With these 100 zoo essay topic ideas and examples, you should have plenty of inspiration to get started on your next assignment. Whether you're interested in the ethical implications of keeping animals in zoos, the role of zoos in conservation efforts, or the impact of zoos on biodiversity and ecosystem health, there's sure to be a topic that piques your interest. Happy writing!

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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Zoo — The Ethics and Controversies of Zoos

The Ethics and Controversies of Zoos

Categories: Animal Ethics Zoo

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Published: Aug 24, 2023

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Conservation and education, animal welfare and enrichment, research and scientific study, human-animal connection and conservation awareness, ethical concerns and animal rights, alternative approaches: sanctuaries and natural habitats, case studies and success stories, captive breeding and reintroduction, conclusion: navigating the complex landscape of zoos and animal welfare.

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A zoo is a place where animals live in captivity and are put on display for people to view. The word “zoo” is short for “zoological park."

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A zoo is a place where animals live in captivity and are put on display for people to view. The word “ zoo ” is short for “ zoological park.” Zoos contain wide varieties of animals that are native to all parts of the Earth. Though people have kept wild animals for thousands of years, those collections have not always resembled modern zoos . The first zoos were created as private collections by the wealthy to show their power. These private collections were called menageries . Wall carvings found in Egypt and Mesopotamia are evidence that rulers and aristocrats created menageries as early as 2500 BCE. They left records of expeditions to distant places to bring back exotic animals such as giraffes, elephants, bears, dolphins, and birds. There is evidence that ancient zoo owners hired animal handlers to make sure their animals thrived and reproduced . Zoos also existed in later civilizations , including China, Greece, and Rome. The Aztec emperor Montezuma II , in what is today Mexico, maintained one of the earliest animal collections in the Western Hemisphere . It was destroyed by Hernan Cortes during the Spanish conquest in 1520. Modern Zoos The model of the modern, public zoo became popular in 18th century, during the Age of Enlightenment . The Age of Enlightenment was a period in European history when science , reason , and logic were promoted as ideals of society and government . The scientific focus of the Age of Enlightenment extended to zoology . During this time, people started wanting to study animals for scientific reasons . Scientists wanted to research animal behavior and anatomy . To do this, scientists and zookeepers had to keep animals in places that were close to, or resembled , the animals’ natural habitats . The first modern zoo , built in 1793, opened in Paris, France. The menageries of French aristrocrats, including the king and queen, were taken by leaders of the French Revolution and relocated to the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes. The facility is still a busy and popular zoo in downtown Paris. Early zoos like the Menagerie du Jardin des Plantes were more like museums of living animals than natural habitats . Animals were kept in small display areas, with as many species as space would allow. Today, zoos are meant to entertain and educate the public but have a strong emphasis on scientific research and species conservation . There is a trend toward giving animals more space and recreating natural habitats . Zoos are usually regulated and inspected by the government . Types of Zoos Urban and Suburban Zoos Urban zoos , located in large cities, still resemble the smaller zoos that were popular 200 years ago. Often, these zoos sit in the middle of cities, making expansion difficult. There is little room for urban zoos to grow, and many of the zoo ’s buildings are historic landmarks that cannot be destroyed or redesigned. In many urban zoos , animals are kept in relatively small enclosures . Some animal activists argue that keeping animals in urban settings is cruel because of cramped conditions, noise, and pollution. Urban zoos are common in Europe, while many zoos in the United States developed as sprawling parks in suburbs outside cities. These open-range zoos give animals more territory to roam and provide more natural habitats . This popular technique of building realistic habitats is called landscape immersion . The San Diego Zoo , in southern California, is the largest zoo in the United States. It is a sub urban zoo that houses more than 4,000 animals (800 different species) in its 0.4 square kilometers (100 acres). Landscape immersion divides animals into their natural habitats , such as the tundra (with reindeer and polar bears) or bamboo forest (featuring pandas.) The San Diego Zoo also includes a wild animal park, which is even more expansive (almost 8 square kilometers or 2,000 acres.) Safari Parks Larger than urban and open-range zoos , safari parks are areas where tourists can drive their own cars to see non-native wildlife living in large, enclosed areas. These attractions allow the animals more space than the small enclosures of traditional zoos . Fuji Safari Park , in Susono, Japan, offers a traditional zoo as well as a drive-through safari park . Visitors can take their own cars or one of the park’s buses. Fuji Safari Park offers night tours, so visitors can see nocturnal animals, or animals that are active at night. At the park, visitors can also feed some animals, such as lions, from bus windows. Not all parks encourage or even allow visitors to feed animals.

Safari parks , especially in Europe, are often part of larger theme parks or resorts . They include golf courses and fairground attractions, such as games and rides. Game Reserves Game reserves are large swaths of land whose ecosystems and native species are protected. The protections allow animals to live and reproduce at natural rates. Animals are allowed to roam free. In the 1800s, a trip to hunt “ big game ” (large animals such as elephants or lions) was called a safari . While some game reserves allow traditional hunting safaris today, others limit visitors to a “photo safari ,” where visitors can shoot photographs, not animals. Animals in all game reserves are protected from illegal hunting , which is a threat to many endangered species . Legal hunts are regulated by the government . Hunters must purchase licenses and are strictly limited to the type and number of animals they can hunt . Poachers , or hunters without licenses, kill animals for valuable body parts. Elephants, for example, are killed by poachers for their ivory tusks. There are game reserves in Asia, the Americas, and Australia. However, most game reserves are in Africa. Millions of visitors flock to sites across Africa to see the same animals that captivated audiences thousands of years ago. The biggest attractions are Africa’s “ Big Five ” species—lions, leopards, rhinoceroses, elephants, and water buffalo. The Big Five are not Africa’s largest species (although the elephant is): They are the most difficult to find and, when legal, to hunt . Only recently has a single zoo , Gondwana Game Reserve in South Africa, offered all Big Five animals in one place. Gondwana sits on 10,000 hectares (24,710 acres) near the center of South Africa’s southern coast . Like many large game reserves , Gondwana has diverse ecosystems that occur naturally and has no need for landscape immersion . In Gondwana, grasslands coexist with shrubland called fynbos . Visitors to Gondwana, like many game reserves , can stay in hotels right in the park. Petting zoos Petting zoos feature domesticated animals that are gentle enough for children to pet and feed. Sheep, goats, donkeys, and rabbits are common petting zoo animals. These types of zoos are found at parks and inside of larger zoos . Sometimes mobile petting zoos travel with fairs or carnivals from city to city. Specialization Most zoos have specialized enclosures and habitats for specific animals. Zoos in cold climates , such as Novosibirsk, Russia, must recreate warm ecosystems for animals like lemurs . Lemurs are a type of primate native to the island of Madagascar, off Africa’s east coast . The summer temperatures of both Siberia and Madagascar are about the same—around 21 degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit). However, Madagascar receives about 200 to 250 millimeters (8 to 10 inches) of rain each summer, making it a humid jungle environment. Novosibirsk gets just 60 to 65 millimeters (2 to 3 inches) of rain and snow. The difference in winter temperatures is even more drastic : Madagascar is about 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit). Lemurs ’ fur can keep them warm at this temperature . Winter in Novosibirsk is -10 degrees Celsius (13 degrees Fahrenheit). The Novosibirsk Zoo has two species of lemur with a specialized heated enclosure with high humidity . Some zoos are dedicated entirely to certain species. Aquariums are types of zoos that exclusively house aquatic animals. The Sydney Aquarium in Australia has exhibits of all of Australia’s major water systems and is home to more than 650 native Australian species. Aviaries and bird parks are another type of specialized zoo . The Jurong Bird Park in Singapore has more than 8,000 birds of 600 species from around the world. Jurong has more than 1,000 flamingoes in an African wetlands exhibit that features a daily simulated thunderstorm . Conservation The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums , the international organization for zoos , is concerned with the health of animals in zoos . The focus of environmental efforts takes the form of research , captive breeding of rare animals, and conservation . Researchers at zoos can study animals up-close. They can observe behavior such as mating and nutrition choices. Biologists and veterinarians are also available to treat sick or injured animals. Captive breeding of endangered species makes zoos valuable places for animal survival. Animals such as the black soft-shelled turtle, native to India and Bangladesh, are extinct in the wild . But they survive in several zoos around the world, with their health looked after by biologists .

The goal of many captive breeding programs at zoos is the re-introduction of animals into the wild. The California condor , a very large bird native to the west coast of the United States, has been re-introduced to its native habitat after breeding in zoos and wildlife parks. There are several breeding pairs of California condors in the wild today. Critics of captive breeding programs say that releasing a few animals into the wild does little to help the species population. Animals are extinct in the wild largely due to loss of habitat . The re-introduction of animals, especially large mammals that require vast territory for survival, does nothing to recover lost habitat . People continue to develop land for homes and businesses. Zoos often have conservation projects in the native habitats of the animals they keep in captivity. For instance, the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums established a partnership with people in rural Papua New Guinea to save tree kangaroos . These rare species are threatened by loss of habitat and the growing population of Papua New Guinea: Villagers hunt the tree kangaroo for meat. A zoo program introduced a rabbit-farming program to address the nutritional needs of the villagers. Zoos also set up conservation sites where the hunting of tree kangaroos was outlawed. While zoos have put more importance on conservation and humane animal treatment in recent decades, some critics say it is cruel to keep animals in captivity. Critics argue that living in captivity takes away wild animals’ natural behavior and instincts . Supporters of zoos say they play an important role in protecting endangered species .

Modern Menageries People still enjoy collecting animals to display in their private homes. The American entertainer Michael Jackson, for instance, had a menagerie that included tigers, giraffes, parrots, and, of course, his pet chimpanzee, Bubbles. The Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar kept an enormous private zoo that included elephants, buffalo, and camels. Some of Escobar's hippopotamuses, native to Africa, escaped into the Colombian jungle. After Escobar's death, the rest of the animals were sold or donated to zoos around the world.

City of Brotherly Animals The first zoo in the United States opened in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1874. The Philadelphia Zoo remains one of the most important zoos and facilities for breeding rare and endangered animals.

Zoo-Literacy Many books of fiction, nonfiction, and historical fiction concern zoos. Life of Pi is a novel by Canadian author Yann Martel. The father of the main character, Pi, is a zookeeper at the Pondicherry Zoo in India. When traveling across the Pacific Ocean, from India to Toronto, Canada, the boat carrying Pi, his family, and all the animals of the zoo sinks. The only survivors, alone on a lifeboat in the middle of the ocean, are Pi and the zoo's Bengal tiger, whose name is Richard Parker. Faithful Elephants: A True Story of Animals, People, and War is a nonfiction book written by Yukio Tsuchiya and illustrated by Ted Levin. The book tells the story of three elephants of the Uneo Zoo in Tokyo, Japan, in the time leading up to World War II. Pride of Baghdad is a graphic novel written by Brian K. Vaughn and illustrated by Niko Henrichon. The factual story, of lions that escaped from the Baghdad Zoo as the war in Iraq began, is told from the lions' point of view.

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Pro and Con: Zoos

To access extended pro and con arguments, sources, and discussion questions about whether zoos should exist, go to ProCon.org .

Zoos have existed in some form since at least 2500 BCE in Egypt and Mesopotamia, where records indicate giraffes, bears, dolphins, and other animals were kept by aristocrats. The oldest still operating zoo in the world, Tiergarten Schönbrunn in Vienna , opened in 1752.

The contemporary zoo evolved from 19th century European zoos. Largely modeled after the London Zoo in Regent’s Park, these zoos were intended for “genteel amusement and edification,” according to Emma Marris , environmental writer and Institute Fellow at the UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability. As such, reptile houses, aviaries, and insectariums were added with animals grouped taxonomically, to move zoos beyond the spectacle of big, scary animals.

Carl Hegenbeck, a German exotic animal importer, introduced the modern model of more natural habitats for animals instead of obvious cages at his Animal Park in Hamburg in 1907. That change prompted the shift in zoo narrative from entertainment to the protection of animals. In the late 20th century, the narrative changed again to the conservation of animals to stave off extinction.

Controversy has historically surrounded zoos, from debates over displaying “exotic” humans in exhibits to zookeepers not knowing what to feed animals. A gorilla named Madame Ningo, the first gorilla to arrive in the United States in 1911 who was to live at the Bronx Zoo, was fed hot dinners and cooked meat despite gorillas being herbivores, for example.

The contemporary debate about zoos tends to focus on animal welfare on both sides, whether zoos protect animals or imprison them.

Zoos educate the public about animals and conservation efforts.
Zoos save species from extinction and other dangers.
Zoos don't educate the public enough to justify keeping animals captive.
Zoos are detrimental to animals' physical health.
Zoo confinement is psychologically damaging to animals.

This article was published on August 13, 2021, at Britannica’s ProCon.org , a nonpartisan issue-information source.

Zoos: Advantages and Disadvantages Essay

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The expediency of zoos and similar institutions is controversial since no artificially created conditions correspond to the natural range of animals’ origin. However, people seek to tame or at least be closer to animals. Therefore, the emergence of zoos, detention centers, or theme parks is an obvious decision. Instead, it is worth determining the expediency of keeping wild animals in captivity and outlining possible compromises.

Today, zoos follow the trend of creating conditions similar to animals’ natural habitats. Thus, one can observe an improved diet, natural plant species of the respective region, and an expanded area of maintenance enclosures. Moreover, children really like zoos because there, one can see animals not native to the region, take cute photos, and have a good time. Unfortunately, no artificial environment will make animals as happy as they could be in the wild. They are unable to make seasonal migrations, some are unable to mate to have offspring, and predators are unable to hunt. In addition, not all zoos follow elementary sanitary standards or the appropriate temperature regime. Thus, animals cannot live freely and happily while in captivity.

Summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of zoos, one can find a compromise regarding the conditions for keeping wild animals in artificial conditions. The only optimal option is to keep only those animals unable to function normally in wild conditions. Thus, the employees of the relevant institutions must ensure the capture and treatment of those animals that need it. If continued captivity under the supervision of specialists is a better option than release into the wild, this option should be chosen. In this way, animals will live in the comfort they deserve, and visitors to zoos will enjoy the beauty of the wild world.

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The Effectiveness of Sustainable Practices, Plans, Programs and Initiatives Implemented by Australian Zoo
Animal Behavior in San Diego Zoo
The Analysis of Siamangs’ Behavior in a Zoo Setting
Social and Behavioral Science: Animals in Society
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IvyPanda. (2024, February 11). Zoos: Advantages and Disadvantages. https://ivypanda.com/essays/zoos-advantages-and-disadvantages/

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The Tragic and Exploitative History of Human Zoos

During a time when slavery had been abolished in most of the world, human zoos remained a popular attraction for millions of Europeans and Americans.

They flocked to exhibits showing groups of dark-skinned people from Africa, Asia, and North America surrounded by trappings that were supposed to represent their “natural environment.”

Most of these cruel and inhumane exhibits closed down in the wake of World War I, but their legacy continues to add to the long stain that is the history of racial exploitation.

The Origins of Human Zoos

The first human zoos were opened in 1874 by an exotic animal trader named Carl Hagenbeck. For years, Hagenbeck had displayed animals from far-flung regions of the world in his traveling shows as a way to introduce regular people to exotic wildlife.

This was at the height of the industrial revolution. People in European countries such as Britain and Germany finally had enough spending money and leisure time to go out and pursue entertainment. This made Hagenbek’s shows highly popular.

But Carl Hagenbeck wasn’t satisfied with his success with exotic animals and decided to take it a step further. He thought to himself, “Why not show not only animals but humans too?”

To the deeply entrenched racist hierarchy that Hagenbeck and others held at the time, Africans were just a couple of rungs above animals on the hierarchy of humanity. A show full of humans would be like his previous show but even more exhilarating.

Carl Hagenbeck was not the first European to exploit foreign cultures and peoples by putting them on display. For centuries, European explorers would take native people who they found in the New World or Africa back with them to Europe to show to their monarchs.

What Carl Hagenbeck did was take the old practice of kidnapping and exploitation and turn it into a profitable industry.

Human Zoos and Colonialism

Today, most people have probably never heard of human zoos. But 150 years ago, Europe experienced what could be called a human zoo craze.

During the early 1900s in Germany, “People’s Shows” attracted large gatherings of spectators. They were interested in getting a glimpse of the exotic without having to travel.

And it wasn’t just Germany. In pretty much any large city in Europe, human zoos found a ready audience.

In the United States, cities from Philadelphia to San Francisco to New York had human exhibits that were all very popular – not to mention profitable. In 1896, the Cincinnati Zoo held an exhibit of Sioux Indians that made them $25,000 in three months.

But by far the largest gatherings of spectators occurred at the World’s Fairs. In Paris in 1889, 28 million people passed through the exhibits, one of which was a group of 400 indigenous people.

Unfortunately, the inclusion of indigenous people in World’s Fairs was something that would be repeated again and again. Even as late as 1958, with the World’s Fair in Belgium, millions of people could still come and gawk at exhibits filled with people from “exotic” races.

Belgium was one of the countries where human zoos flourished most. During King Leopold’s nearly 50-year reign from 1865 to 1909, thousands of people from Congo, a Belgian colony at the time, were taken back to Belgium as propaganda tools for the king’s empire-building project.

By exhibiting Congolese people, King Leopold hoped to spark interest in his Belgian colony and gain more support from the public. All the while obscuring the atrocities being committed under his colonial system.

Growing Up in a Human Zoo

Europeans may have loved the idea of human zoos . But for the people who were forced to work in them, the experience was incredibly degrading – not to mention dangerous.

Take Theodor Wonja Michael for example. During his extraordinary life, Theodor was an actor during the Nazi era, a survivor of a concentration camp, and worked as a spy during the Cold War.

But as a child, he was forced to work in an exhibit in which he was dressed in a raffia skirt and pretended to be a “wild” African boy. His father had immigrated from Cameroon and the only decent-paying job he could find was in a human zoo.

When Theodor was just one year old, his mother died. The courts decided that his father was not capable of caring for his four children. The family was then broken apart, with each child going to a different human zoo operator.

For Theodor, it was devastating. Not only had he been forcibly separated from his family, he found himself completely dependent on the whims of his operator.

Human zoos were a terribly oppressive environment. People pushed up against the barriers separating them from the exhibitions. They jeered and heckled the performers. And they didn’t hesitate in showing their displeasure when they didn’t get what they wanted.

In November 1881, at an exhibit in Berlin, a massive mob of visitors was denied the opportunity to see a group of indigenous people who had decided to hide in their hut.

Enraged, the crowd pressed up against the enclosure and destroyed fences and other barriers in their attempt to interact with the subjects of the exhibit. For the people trapped inside the exhibit, the reaction of the crowd must have been terrifying.

Indeed, many indigenous people, having been lured to Europe with false promises, realized too late the grave mistake they had made in believing the profit-hungry entrepreneurs.

One group of eight Inuit who were placed in an exhibit in Berlin. They complained, “The air is constantly buzzing from the sound of the walking and driving; our enclosure is filled up immediately.”

This particular group of eight Inuit suffered for just a few months before dying one by one from smallpox.

The End of Human Zoos

Human zoos may seem like a relic of the past, but the age of racial exploitation has never really ended.

Many human zoos closed down after World War I. This was partly because the survivors began integrating into society and could no longer be forced into such miserable working conditions.

But subsequent World’s Fairs and zoos continued to include humans as part of their exhibits for decades.

In 1958, the Brussels World’s Fair featured a Congolese village where men and women were made to dress in traditional garb and carry out crafts in front of hordes of onlookers. If the visitors weren’t happy with the “villagers’” performance, they would shout and throw bananas or money at them.

Even as recently as 2005 in Augsburg, Germany, a celebration of African culture known as the “African Village” festival was held, of all places, in the center of the city’s zoo.

Although the event’s organizer saw nothing wrong with holding the festival next to monkey cages and a Savannah exhibit, many others understandably took offense. Some people were so upset that they even threatened to burn the zoo down.

While the days of forcing humans into cages for public entertainment may have ended, it is clear that the history of human zoos has left a deep scar that may never fully heal.

If there is one silver lining in this tragic history, it is that it serves as a reminder that one person’s entertainment is another’s exploitation, no matter how well-intentioned you may be.

The Lovers of Valdaro – A Double Burial From Neolithic Italy

Quiz: How well do you know US presidents?

The Ethics of the Zoo

Melissa Block

Melissa Block talks with Jeffrey Hyson, an assistant professor of history at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia. Hyson is writing a book on the cultural history of zoos. We ask him about the modern interest and opposition to zoos. He says there is a tension between the desire to see the animals one would never get to see naturally in the wild, and the feeling of pity for them as they are held in captivity.

Essay on Zoo for Students and Children

500 words essay on zoo.

The world is a huge place to see. It consists of so many living organisms that it is impossible to see each and every one of them. Especially for human beings, who are fascinated very much by animals. For the same reasons, zoos were created so that humans can interact better with animals.

In other words, a zoo is a facility that has animals, birds, and reptiles of all kinds. They are confined to space where they are given food and medical facilities. The government has given strict guidelines to maintain a zoo. This is done keeping in mind the animal’s safety. In addition, zoos are made breeding grounds for animals to protect their species.

Benefits of Zoo

Zoos were made to bring wildlife closer to humans. It gave humans a better and up-close view of them. This allows various researchers and scientists to note the behavioral pattern of the animals. It helps them in their studies and discover new things.

In addition, zoos are a great source of entertainment for kids. They love visiting zoos and interacting with animals. This helps them learn practical knowledge about the animal. It also gives them exposure to wildlife and widens their knowledge.

Furthermore, zoos give us easy access to rare animals. Had it not been for zoos, we would have never been able to see what some animals looked like. We enjoy their behavior and it also creates awareness about the extinction of the rare species.

Similarly, zoos are a safe breeding ground for animals. They ensure the animal breeds so they never go extinct. This helps in creating a good balance. Moreover, the zoos ensure the animals get all the nutrition in their bodies to lead a healthy life. This is beneficial as the animal may not get guaranteed meals in the forests.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Disadvantages of Zoo

While the zoo is a great place for entertainment, it is also very exploitive. It takes advantage of the poor animals to make a profit off them. The zoos keep animals in very bad conditions. It takes unethical methods just to create revenue.

Furthermore, zoos are very unfair to animals. They take the animals out of their natural habitats just for the sake of human entertainment. Why would the animals be put into cages as humans want them to? They are voiceless creatures who are being forced to live in poor conditions. Imagine putting humans into cages so animals could come to see them. It sounds inhumane the other way around but not when we do the same to animals.

Most importantly, zoos do not take proper care of exotic animals. They bring them over in their facility despite knowing that they cannot survive in that climate. Some zoos do not take enough precautionary measures to keep the animals safe. This has resulted in so many deaths of animals that it seems cruel.

In short, though zoos are very helpful to humans and animals to an extent. They must be monitored constantly to ensure the animals are safe. The unethical zoos must be shut down at once to prevent any further loss of animals.

FAQs on Zoo

Q.1 List the advantages of Zoo

A.1 Zoos bring the wildlife close to humans. It helps researchers study them closely and discover new things. It protects rare species and provides a safe breeding ground for them as well.

Q.2 How are zoos harmful to animals?

A.2 Zoos are very harmful to animals. They take them out of their natural habitat for human entertainment. They make them stay in poor conditions due to which they also lose their life and get infections.

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Oldest zoo in the US finds new ways to flourish. See how it is making its mark.

PHILADELPHIA – It was Day 7 with 90-plus degree temperatures in Philadelphia, and a lot of the animals were moving a bit more languidly, but Shareef Parker's sons, Michael and Dallas, ages 4 and 5 respectively, didn't seem to mind.

"Snakes," answered Michael when asked his favorite animal. "And monkeys." Dallas, Parker said, was partial to the lions and other big cats.

With eight children ranging in age from 1 to 15, Parker said his family's membership at the Philadelphia Zoo, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this month, comes in handy often: He can pick up and take whichever kids want to go, make a quick drive from their home in nearby Montgomery County and stay as long as the kids want; the family does so at least a few times a year.

Tony Vickers' 2-year-old daughter, Noelle, sat in her stroller, watching a red-footed tortoise, one of the zoo's "ambassador animals," make its way (slowly, of course) toward a water dish.

"We're members," said Vickers, a Kentucky native who lives in Philadelphia. "We practically live here. Sometimes we come twice a week. It's close to home, it's easy to get in and out, and the staff is always friendly."

America's first zoo, which opened its doors to the public on July 1, 1874, has endured through two world wars, the Great Depression, political and social upheaval and not one but two global pandemics.

But as it marks a century and a half, the Philadelphia Zoo − like others across the nation − has been finding unique ways to engage visitors and adapt to evolving demographics, climate change, rising costs and post-pandemic challenges.

Zoos nationwide finding a new footprint

The best zoos "have a high degree of trust and favorability in their communities," said Dan Ashe, president and CEO of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums , which accredits facilities in the U.S., Canada and elsewhere.

"Philadelphia is a great example of a place where they take to heart the importance of being part of the community − making sure the community is a part of the zoo and the zoo is not something that’s an enclave within their community," Ashe said. "People see (zoos and aquariums) as valuable assets, trusted sources of information and so they enjoy a high degree of trust."

There are 134 accredited zoos (and nine facilities that include zoos and aquariums) in the U.S., according to the AZA. The organization offers accreditation at least every five years. There are 213 zoos, aquariums and related facilities in the U.S. spread across 46 states and the District of Columbia.

AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums are home to more than 780,000 animals and more than 8,600 species, including 800-plus species that are vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered or extinct in the wild, the organization says.

Their economic impact is significant: In 2018, the most recent year surveyed, AZA-accredited zoos and aquariums brought more than $22.5 billion to the U.S. economy, supporting more than 198,000 full-time jobs and serving more than 183 million visitors nationally.

All of the AZA's member zoos and aquariums ‒ which Ashe called "the cream of the crop," accredited by an organization he described as "the gold standard worldwide" ‒ struggled during the pandemic, forced to close and lose millions in revenue, even as they needed to continue to care for the animals and pay essential employees.

Ninety-six percent of AZA's member organizations, which include institutions public and private, large and small, for-profit and nonprofit, were closed for an average of six months, Ashe said, and some closed for as long as 14 months.

"It was a very difficult period of time," he said. "But they received generous support from the government," including tax credits, Shuttered Venues Operator Grant funds, Paycheck Protection Program money and money earmarked for institutions caring for endangered species.

Now, Ashe said, "Our members are doing quite well. ... When the public came back, they really came back."

The first zoo, in 'a land of firsts'

Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman took over as Philadelphia Zoo's president and CEO in October after leading the St. Louis Zoo's new WildCare Park , a 425-acre safari park and conservation center near where the Mississippi and Missouri rivers meet, set to open in 2027.

She wanted to learn as much as she could about Philadelphia, which she called "a land of firsts."

"That has really informed my thinking about what the next phase is and how to level up. (The zoo) is part of being a Philadelphian, and they deserve the very best," she said.

Philadelphia Zoo has a sterling reputation, said Mogerman, who also worked at Shedd Aquarium and Brookfield Zoo , both in Chicago.

With a background in conservation biology, Mogerman was drawn to Philadelphia Zoo's history of scientific innovations: It was among the first zoos to have an animal laboratory and to study zoonotic diseases , animal nutrition and wildlife conservation.

Its Zoo360 system of trails serves a dual purpose: Animals, from prowling big cats to bouncing pint-size lemurs, can navigate through a set of above-ground trails, offering enrichment for species used to wide ranges ‒ and a way for visitors to get a closer (and still safe) view of animals on the move. That system has been replicated in more than 70 zoos worldwide, Mogerman said.

"Our work is critically important as advocates for wildlife," Mogerman said. "I tell people bring the family, come here for a date night, have fun. We as humans have a natural affinity for animals. but as a leader of this organization, I know we need to make sure people are supportive of wildlife."

While the zoo's core is young families, they're not the only demographic it appeals to. Events such as the zoo's upcoming Summer Ale Festival , evening hours for members, ongoing African Culture Fests and animal spotlight series help further the zoo's mission, she said: "Come in for the beer and we'll talk to you about our conservation efforts and how you can act to make a positive impact."

LumiNature , a wintertime event that features light-based attractions and roaming performers, brings visitors during a time when the zoo, which is open year-round, traditionally saw fewer people.

The zoo is "a microcosm of what's happening in the world," she said. "The wild isn't what it used to be. Our approach to conservation has changed dramatically; we used to parachute into other countries and try to tell them what to do."

Zoos have become part of communities

Now, the zoo's conservation efforts focus on the communities where they're working, taking into account local traditions and ways of life, engaging with the people who live there and working to understand how to preserve species and habitats with their help.

In West Philadelphia, where the zoo is bounded by busy thoroughfares and a regional rail line, it means being a good neighbor, hosting community nights during the LumiNature show and throughout the year, offering memberships to nonprofits, engaging with community groups and hosting programs for city teens.

Rachel Metz, the zoo's vice president of animal well-being and conservation, said 700 million people visit zoos and aquariums worldwide − more than the number who attend professional baseball, football, hockey and basketball games combined.

"We're not just fun places to visit," she said. "Without us, some animals might not exist, and that's an overwhelming thought."

"You're looking at them, into the eyes of a tiger or a primate, and your heart is open because they're beautiful, but you're open to learning," Mogerman said.

"And that's our superpower."

Contact Phaedra Trethan by email at [email protected], on X (formerly Twitter) @wordsbyphaedra, or on Threads @by_phaedra

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A black-and-white portrait of President Biden.

Opinion Frank Bruni

What Joe Biden Just Did Is Utterly Extraordinary

Credit... Damon Winter/The New York Times

Supported by

By Frank Bruni

Frank Bruni is a contributing Opinion writer who was on the staff of The Times for more than 25 years.

July 21, 2024

In the hours and days to come, many political observers will say that President Biden was backed into a corner and had no choice but to end his re-election campaign. His limitations had been laid painfully bare. He’d lost the confidence of the Democratic Party. And he was staggering toward an increasingly ugly revolt within it or a potentially harrowing defeat by Donald Trump. Bowing out wasn’t an act of grace. It was a saving of face.

All correct. But that’s not the whole truth. Not the full story. It misses the bigness of what Biden just did — its historical rarity, its emotional agony, its fundamental humility.

Yes, his decision to abandon his aspirations for a second term and let another, younger Democrat seek the presidency came weeks later than it should have, after too much secrecy, too much arrogance, too much denial. He pushed wishful thinking to the limit, scoffing at polls, sniping at the news media and claiming omniscience in a manner that eerily echoed Trump’s populist bluster. (“I’m getting so frustrated by the elites.” “Look at the crowds.”) But that doesn’t erase the enormous impact and extraordinary example of relinquishing his candidacy.

His exit from the presidential race creates a kind and magnitude of uncertainty about who one of the major party’s nominees will be — and what sort of late-stage, rushed operation that person can put together — that has no real precedent in modern American politics. Maybe his endorsement of Kamala Harris and the vice-president’s traditional status as heir apparent will amount to her speedy anointment. Maybe not. She has doubters aplenty, and many prominent Democrats crave a real competition, not a segue from obligatory indulgence of Biden to forced allegiance to Harris.

This is terra incognita. While Republicans in 1964 and Democrats in 1968 began their summer conventions without clarity about the outcome, the candidates in the hunt for the nomination had been making their pitches and jockeying for position for much of the year. They weren’t in a mad dash after a mid-July swerve that has many Americans reeling.

Nor was their party puzzling over what to do in a climate of panic this intense. Democrats aren’t simply thinking and talking about the best way to beat Republicans; they’re thinking and talking about the sturdiest bulwark against a second Trump administration that they rightly consider a dire threat to American democracy itself. And they’re confronting a version of Trump, with his wounded ear and his swollen claims of divine mission, as confident of victory and in command of his followers as he has ever been.

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History of Zoos: Past, Present & Future (incl. Timeline)
Ancient Egyptians keep wild animals, beginning the concept of zoos. 500 BCE - 500 CE. Greek and Roman empires use zoos for entertainment and power displays. 1200s. Royal menageries, like the Tower of London, become popular in Europe. 1500s. Renaissance sees some menageries opening to the public for education. 1752.
How did zoos develop
Increasingly, modern zoos today are not just seen as a place to see local and exotic animals, but they are treated as places of conservation. However, we can see that in relatively recent history that was not the case, as many older zoos have display areas and cages that clearly were intended to simply display animals to a curious public.
Rambling Thoughts On The History Of Zoos
FULL TEXT. EXTERNAL STUDY. This essay discusses the history of zoos, with a focus on conservation and animal collections. In this essay the author, who has spent time as both a zoo keeper and curator, provides a critical look at the (unflattering) history of zoos as well as their current state. The focus of present-day zoos centers around two ...
Zoos: History and Rescue of Endangered Animals
Determining what comes first: entertainment or ethics is a question that is left to the future history of zoos. Why Should We Save Endangered Species. When it comes to animal captivity and its ethics one may look towards the topic of conservation. Conservation appears to be the focal point that zoos try to steer the public into focusing on.
History of Zoos and Aquariums: From Royal Gifts to Biodiversity
Indeed there are many books on the history of individual zoos and on the ethos of zoos and like-minded institutions, but as an extremely useful quick reference of landmark dates and a potted history of the global zoo movement, this slim 158 page publication takes some beating. The four sections are well balanced and chart the development of ...
Are Zoos Ethical? Arguments for and Against Zoos
A Brief History of Zoos . Humans have kept wild animals for thousands of years. The first efforts to keep wild animals for non-utilitarian uses began about 2,500 BCE, when rulers in Mesopotamia ...
The Benefits Of Zoos For Animals: [Essay Example], 550 words
The Benefits of Zoos for Animals. Exploring the role of zoos in the modern age reveals a complex narrative where these institutions serve as sanctuaries for wildlife, contributing significantly to animal rehabilitation and conservation. Amidst debates on the ethical implications of zoos, it is crucial to delve into specific instances where zoos ...
Zoos: A Historical Perspective
A collection of pamphlets and guide books published by zoos over the past century has been collected by the National Zoological Park branch of the Smithsonian Institution Libraries. This online sample of these items, which includes maps, drawings and photographs of zoos from over 30 states and 40 countries is intended to highlight the value of ...
Zoos the History of Zoos Is Entwined Essay
TOPIC: Essay on Zoos the History of Zoos Is Entwined Assignment As Smith points out, "If the majority of the people visiting the zoo are only looking at caged animals and making their own conclusions about what the animals are thinking…then it seems to me they are internalizing the concept of power and control over nature and other animals ...
100 Zoo Essay Topic Ideas & Examples
To help you out, here are 100 zoo essay topic ideas and examples that you can use as inspiration for your next assignment: The ethical implications of keeping animals in zoos. The role of zoos in conservation efforts. The impact of zoos on animal behavior. The history of zoos and how they have evolved over time.
Essay on Zoo
The essay on zoos explains that Zoos are an important part of our society and culture. They provide us with a connection to nature, preserve endangered species, and educate people about animals. Visiting a zoo can be a great way for families to spend time together while learning more about wildlife conservation. By supporting zoos and their ...
Persuasive Essay On Zoos
Persuasive Essay On Zoos; Persuasive Essay On Zoos. 640 Words 3 Pages. Have you ever been to the zoo? If you have, then you have probably noticed the pain and misery that the animals are subject to and the cages that limit their spatial needs. Entire species have died out after being subject to conditions that they are not accustomed to.
The Ethics and Controversies of Zoos: [Essay Example], 824 words
The Ethics and Controversies of Zoos. The practice of keeping animals in zoos has sparked a passionate debate that revolves around ethical considerations and conservation goals. This essay explores the multifaceted arguments for and against the existence of zoos, delving into their roles in conservation, animal welfare, research, education, and ...
Zoo
Zoo-Literacy Many books of fiction, nonfiction, and historical fiction concern zoos. Life of Pi is a novel by Canadian author Yann Martel.The father of the main character, Pi, is a zookeeper at the Pondicherry Zoo in India. When traveling across the Pacific Ocean, from India to Toronto, Canada, the boat carrying Pi, his family, and all the animals of the zoo sinks.
Persuasive Essay On Zoos
Persuasive Essay On Zoos; Persuasive Essay On Zoos. 380 Words 2 Pages. Zoos should not be allowed and shut down because they are internment camps for animals and here are some reasons why. First, zoos cannot provide sufficient space. Zoos don't have the space that animals would have in the wild. Tigers and Lions have around 18,000 times less ...
Pro and Con: Zoos
Zoos have existed in some form since at least 2500 BCE in Egypt and Mesopotamia, where records indicate giraffes, bears, dolphins, and other animals were kept by aristocrats. The oldest still operating zoo in the world, Tiergarten Schönbrunn in Vienna, opened in 1752. The contemporary zoo evolved from 19th century European zoos.
Persuasive Essay On Zoos
Zoos Zoos are keeping animals safe against hunters and other malicious animals. If it weren't for zoos, thousands of animals would die because of bad habitats, starvation, poachers, and predators. These animals should be kept in zoos because it will md have died because of predators and hunters.
Zoos: Advantages and Disadvantages
They are unable to make seasonal migrations, some are unable to mate to have offspring, and predators are unable to hunt. In addition, not all zoos follow elementary sanitary standards or the appropriate temperature regime. Thus, animals cannot live freely and happily while in captivity. Summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of zoos, one ...
Debating the Morality and Value of Zoos
Peter Fisher for The New York Times. To the Editor: Re " The Case Against Zoos ," by Emma Marris (Sunday Review, June 13): Ms. Marris argues that leading zoos and aquariums spend an outsized ...
The Tragic and Exploitative History of Human Zoos
The Origins of Human Zoos. The first human zoos were opened in 1874 by an exotic animal trader named Carl Hagenbeck. For years, Hagenbeck had displayed animals from far-flung regions of the world in his traveling shows as a way to introduce regular people to exotic wildlife. This was at the height of the industrial revolution.
The Ethics of the Zoo : NPR
The Ethics of the Zoo Melissa Block talks with Jeffrey Hyson, an assistant professor of history at St. Joseph's University in Philadelphia. Hyson is writing a book on the cultural history of zoos ...
Essay on Zoo for Students and Children
In short, though zoos are very helpful to humans and animals to an extent. They must be monitored constantly to ensure the animals are safe. The unethical zoos must be shut down at once to prevent any further loss of animals. FAQs on Zoo. Q.1 List the advantages of Zoo. A.1 Zoos bring the wildlife close to humans. It helps researchers study ...
Are Zoos Immoral?
Giraffes endlessly flick their tongues. Bears and cats pace. Some studies have shown that as many as 80 percent of zoo carnivores, 64 percent of zoo chimps and 85 percent of zoo elephants have ...
Philadelphia Zoo prime example of how old institutions can feel new
Tony Vickers' 2-year-old daughter, Noelle, sat in her stroller, watching a red-footed tortoise, one of the zoo's "ambassador animals," make its way (slowly, of course) toward a water dish.
Persuasive Essay On Why Zoos Are Good For Animals
Zoos are good for animals because without zoos many animals would have long been extinct. Many zoos have breeding programs for endangered species that allow the animals to be bred in captivity and later released into the wild. This not only helps zoologists learn valuable information about these animals but also boosts the wild population of them.
Persuasive Essay On Zoos
Persuasive Essay On Zoos; Persuasive Essay On Zoos. 315 Words 2 Pages. Zoos should be shut down so animals can stay in the wild. Some proof of this claim is from separation of parents, losing natural instincts, and just not enough space in each cage. These zoos can be very abusive or unfair. According to an online article losing parents can be ...
Hillary Clinton: How Kamala Harris Can Win and Make History
History has its eye on us. President Biden's decision to end his campaign was as pure an act of patriotism as I have seen in my lifetime. It should also be a call to action to the rest of us to ...
Persuasive Essay Against Zoos
This will be shown by taking in to account that zoos should not be banned and should encourage to keep safe animals at their. Looking at first, zoos are the second forest for animals. For example, if they are providing with natural ambiance, trees and other animals in the same zoo then they can feel at home.
Opinion
Frank Bruni is a contributing Opinion writer who was on the staff of The Times for more than 25 years. In the hours and days to come, many political observers will say that President Biden was ...
Zoos And Education Corrected By Cody Akerson
Zoos that choose to take part in AZA they must meet and exceed standards and show exceptional professionalism, not only in the care of animals but for the people that attended the zoo as well. In AZA is only sixteen people who can give accreditation. For those people who give accreditation must be trained experts in three categories: veterinary ...

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