Pros And Cons Of Animals In Captivity

The captivity of animals in zoos has been a conflict for some time now. Many people think zoos are a form of cruel and unusual punishment for wild life. Many people believe an animal in captivity is denied its rights to freedom. Others believe it is a way to preserve endangered species while at the same time educational for the public. There are pros and cons to both sides, however, the use of zoos is not a necessary evil and should in fact be retired. There are many pros when it comes to zoos. For example, zoos help keep endangered wildlife out of the reach of hunters as well as giving the species the ability to reproduce if the majority of the species is killed off. Animals are killed for many reasons such as fur, ivory, medicinal purposes,
Many zookeepers try to argue that the animals can be used for research, however, according to Last Chance for Animals, “There are simply very few zoos that practice relevant and reliable research. Those that do mainly examine the physiological structure of a captive animal, as well as the illnesses he or she has acquired. These results however, are obviously skewed towards animals living in captivity.” These zoos can not effectively research a wild animal when the animals in captivity show mental illnesses that are caused by the fact that they are living in captivity. The animal is now changed and the research is no longer effective. LCA also states that, “Many animals held in captivity begin to form abnormal symptoms referred to as “zoochosis.” These neurotic and atypical behaviors occur as a result of boredom, depression, frustration, a lack of mental and physical enrichment, and removal from their natural habitat and social structures.” Zoos are hurting more than they are
Surplus animals are, most of the time, adult animals who are no longer wanted or needed. According to Corrine Henn of One Green Planet surplus animals are, “Basically, any animal that does not ‘fit’ into the zoos breeding program can be considered a surplus. Surplus animals can also be animals that the zoo no longer finds profitable, cubs that were a big hit the year before might be replaced by newer, younger animals. Since zoos are not responsible for lifetime care of animals, they can get rid of the animals who are no longer profitable or useful.” This could be due to many things such as age, illness, size, or being breaded too much so the animal can no longer have children. These animals are often sold or traded to different zoos or given to sanctuaries. Many people are not aware of what happens to these animals or do not want to believe the harsh realities that come along with zoos. Besides selling or trading these animals, there is one other option called “zoothanasia.” This is the killing of animals and is found in Europe and the United States. Zoothanasia has caused much concern and protest for people of communities who attend zoos. Copenhagen Zoo caused protest because of this very thing. Jacalyn Beales of Earth Island Journal explained the situation. She says, “’Marius,’ an 18 month-old giraffe that had been born at the Copenhagen Zoo, was healthy and likely would have lived a long life. The animal