Introduction

Zoos and animal-themed parks are amusements for the children. Zoos and sea worlds can help parents teach their children about various animals and aquatic organisms. However, we need to remember that while these may be a mode  of entertainment for us, we are actually depriving animals of their natural habitats. 

Zoos can be defined as animals being placed inside a cage and displayed to the outside world. It is not recommended to keep the animals confined because it may cause them stress living in a small limited area. Animal-themed parks such as sea world are captive places for marine life. As a result, they are restricted to a particular area and are not allowed to wander freely.

Pros Of Having Zoos And Animal Theme Parks

Some groups of people think that there are advantages associated with having such amusement parks, such as:

1. It helps them protect from predators and poaching. There is always a high risk to animals in their natural habitat where they can be harmed by the animals superior to them. But it doesn't happen in zoos or animal theme parks.

2. It helps conserve the endangered species, and it is true to some extent. Many species such as tigers and rhinos are subjected to extinction. They can be well protected in the zoo.

3. We can see all the animals in one place and help the students to learn more about the animals, their food habits and behaviour.

Cons Of Having Zoos And Animal Theme Parks

Though there are a few advantages of having zoos, the number of disadvantages outruns it, which are described as follows:

1. They are captured and captivated in a limited space with limited resources. They may be separated from their parents at a very young age. The sea animals and colourful fishes would be captured by nets and left at the place to entertain people.

2. Due to the imbalance in their mental conditions or physical sufferings, some animals are subjected to death at a very early age in their captivity in zoos. 

3. They suffer from various health issues because the humans or the officials cannot meet their hunger by providing enough food. They sometimes fail to give proper care and attention to the animals. 

4. Oceans cannot replace tanks or aquariums. As there would be limited space, the aquatic animals would compete against each other, causing injury or death.

5. It is reported that the captivated animals live a shorter life than expected as they would be given drugs or tranquilliser to lessen their wilderness. This is seen in the altered behavioural patterns in the animals.

Conclusion

It is always a wise decision to close zoos or other animal theme parks. Instead, people should adopt ways to see the animals in their natural habitats, such as wildlife sanctuaries. These are present in many parts of the world where they are not bound by any boundaries and are free to wander. Such initiatives should be taken for the well-being of animals.

FAQs

1. Should zoos and animal theme parks be allowed?

Ans. They provide animals with a safer environment and protect them from poaching. But there are many risks associated with it, leading to stress and damage to the animals. 

2. How do zoos mistreat animals?

Ans. They deprive them of their natural environment and lead to various health and psychological issues.

3. Is animal testing done in zoos?

Ans. Yes, it is done for experiments or testing drugs in some countries, but it violates human rights as it leads to pain and suffering for animals.

4. Can wild animals be kept in a zoo?

Ans. Yes, they can be captured by giving certain drugs and be kept in the zoo.

5. Name 2 countries that have banned zoos.

Ans. Greece and the Netherlands have banned zoos.