Should Animals be Kept in Zoos?

Recommend (1) Comments (2)

Zoos have to educate the public about the value of animals so that they understand the importance of conservation. After a fun experience at the zoo, people leave with a newfound knowledge and understanding. How are they going to learn these things if they don’t get to see the animals? Zoos and aquariums give people an appreciation for the animals. They need to see, listen to, and smell an elephant. Viewing an animal on TV does not give a person the same kind of love and respect for the creature as seeing it in person does.

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is the major accrediting body for zoos in North America . AZA’s standards require excellence in animal care and welfare, conservation, education, and research before a zoological park is eligible to receive their stamp of approval. Accredited zoos all over the country are actively supporting conservation projects in the wild. Most zoos are actively involved in numerous projects to preserve and rescue a wide range of endangered species from elephants to amphibians. In 2007 alone, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium raised over $716,000 for field conservation. Because of tireless conservation efforts, species like the snow leopard and the mountain gorilla have overcome near extinction and will have the opportunity to see future generations.