Introduction

4284656736_085a1fedea_o

 

Zoos serve a multitude of functions. To the family, the zoo is a source of fun family time, a time for the parents to watch and enjoy as their children become fascinated with animals not seen outside of the zoo. To the tourist, it is yet another tourist attraction, with different exotic animals in different zoos, and a chance to take photographs to complement their travels. To the country, it is a source of revenue, and how nicely the zoo is kept will determine how much can be earned from this avenue. Perhaps the most important function is the protection of species, by captive breeding or otherwise, as a means to sustain biodiversity. Indeed, much has been said about the presence of zoos as a way to protect endangered species and animal welfare. At the end of it all, have zoos served their purpose of conserving diversity? If so, at what cost? And, more importantly, is this cost reasonable enough to continue the sustenance of zoos? Or should an alternative measure be found?

Leave a Reply

A general assessment of the zoo and its various roles, as well as how well it fulfils these roles