Meta description: PlanetSpark offers insights on whether all zoos and aquariums are cruel or evil. This article explains the pros and cons of these establishments.
Zoos and aquariums are often seen as bad. There are indeed some places that do not give wild animals what they need. Wild animals need a natural environment, and enough space to ensure they get exercise. Zoos are often seen as awful prisons, with little room to move freely. Many people look at these caged animals as sources of entertainment.
Some zoos go to the extent of sedating animals to make them compliant, while visitors take pictures. These acts are extremely cruel to the animals. With that said, there are a few benefits of zoos and aquariums that are often overlooked; benefits that could help us take care of the marvellous species on planet Earth.
Zoos Are Used To Protect
Some zoos and aquariums work hard to protect endangered species. Unattended forest areas leave these animals vulnerable to poachers. Deforestation and pollution have reduced their natural habitat, which affects the safety of these species. Certain zoos and aquariums rehabilitate these animals and help increase their populations.
They Spread Awareness
Zoos and aquariums offer a valuable opportunity to spread awareness of environmental conservation. They are popular spots for families and young children in particular. Wildlife experts can educate visitors on the importance of conservation. Doing this helps people understand that these animals are a vital part of our ecosystem and not just entertainment.
They Are Imperfect, But Necessary
There is no doubt that zoos and aquariums require regulation and investment. Animal welfare must have a well-trained staff, enough space, and healthy breeding programs. We can try to make sure that animals are captured only when needed. For example; to treat them with medicine when they are sick. This way, zoos, and aquariums can continue to do more good than harm.
In conclusion, zoos are necessary to tend to animals that are in danger. From an idealist’s perspective, there should be no need for them, they should be free, wild and safe. However, that is not the reality we live in. Zoos and aquariums are essential to the survival of endangered species, but there needs to be clear regulations about how animals are treated, handled and cared for.
Zoos and aquariums cannot be closed, animals that are used to a semi-domesticated environment will not survive in the wild and there is simply not enough infrastructure to relocate them to other zoos. Even if the infrastructure was made, the sheer trauma of travelling would be unfair to them.
Instead, zoos and aquariums should come under strict scrutiny and adhere to laws laid down by the relevant authorities, such as government and wildlife authorities.
FAQs
1. Why are zoos and aquariums seen as ‘bad’?
Zoos and aquariums are seen as bad because they do not give wild animals what they need, such as ample space, natural environments, healthy diets. Many animals are mistreated and have terrible lives.
2. What are the pros of zoos and aquariums?
Zoos and aquariums work hard to protect endangered species. Wildlife experts can educate visitors on the importance of conservation.
3. What are some pros of zoos and aquariums?
Zoos and aquariums provide refuge to animals that may otherwise be poached in the wild. They also serve as a great educational platform and allow people to see wild animals.
4. How can we improve zoos and aquariums?
Animal welfare must have a well-trained staff, enough space, and healthy breeding programs. We can try to make sure that animals are captured only when needed. This way, zoos, and aquariums can do more good than harm.
5. Why do we need to spread awareness about environmental conservation?
Awareness helps people understand that these animals are a vital part of our ecosystem and not just entertainment.
