A zoo is a facility in which animals are kept in captivity and put on display for the public. Zoos often bred animals and carry out research to help endangered species to survive in the wild. The word zoo comes from the word zoology, which is the study of animals. There are now over 1000 zoos in the world and 80% of those zoos are in cities. Zoos are now often referred to as wildlife conservation parks and bioparks. Most zoos attempt to replicate an animal’s natural environment and diet and have large spaces available for those animals that require them. Zoos are taking on many different forms now and are more committed to help animals survive in natural habitats.
Disadvantages of Zoos
One of the biggest disadvantages to animals in zoos is that they start to lose some of their natural instincts and abilities. This can make it difficult for them if a zoo chooses to release them back into a natural habitat after a period of captivity.
In some cases the habitat areas are too small for the animal making it difficult for them to live healthily and naturally.
It may be difficult for an animal to adjust to a different environment particularly if steps are not taken to create a habitat that is suitable
It may be difficult to get the correct type of food to provide for their diets. Large animals consume a lot of food putting financial stress on the zoo that may then choose cheaper less healthy options.
The cost to the community may be high due to training of staff and resource costs
The animals have limited choice in habitats and mates.
The animals may become domesticated to some degree due to their close contact with humans
In poorer countries zoo’s do not have a large budget and sometimes the animals are not cared for as well as they should be. This leads to unhygienic living conditions and poor treatment of the animals.