Essay On Animals In Captivity

“ISIS data indicates that 82 percent of new mammals are now born in captivity, along with 64 percent of birds and a majority of reptile species.” (ISIS). Animals in captivity is something that people have been around their whole lives. Animals in zoos for instance. Children take field trips to the zoo all the time. They walk around in groups looking at these animals in cages, taking pictures with them while they are behind bars. This is just something that humans have grown used to and are ok with. However, does that necessarily make it ok? According to CAPS, Captive Animals’ Protection Society, “Wild animals in zoos suffer physically and mentally as their complex social, behavioural and physical needs cannot be met in unnatural man made environments.” Physically, animals are not given enough space in zoos. Nothing will compare to the amount of roaming space animals would have in the wild vs. in their exhibits in zoos. According to Friends of Captive
“Without enrichment captive animals frequently experience a stress response similar to mental illness, which can cause animals to behave abnormally: for example, adopting repetitive, obsessive motions. These behaviours are called 'stereotypies' and indicate that an animal is in distress. 'Stereotypies' are obsessive, repetitive movements that have no natural purpose. Pacing, rocking, bar-biting, and self mutilation through excessive chewing, licking, self-biting or feather plucking are examples of 'stereotypies'. Stress, frustration, and boredom are believed to be major causes of this disturbed behaviour. These behaviours are signs that the animal is in distress”