Captive breeding might be the best measure for species that are dangerously close to extinction, as a catalyst for increasing the numbers more quickly than merely implementing measures to protect and improve the habitats of such species (Ralls and Meadows, 2001).

An example of the success of captive breeding is reflected in the case of the Peregrine falcon, which almost became extinct in the early 1970s as a result of damage by two decades of using the pesticide DDT. With the efforts of biologists in Canada, Britain and other parts of the world, and the captive breeding programmes developed, the peregrine falcon made a comeback in numbers, and their numbers are still going strong.

Captive breeding also provides a major benefit to zoos in the form of the variety of animals available for exhibition, which in turn leads to higher appeal to the public and a greater crowd generating income via entrance fees (Ralls and Meadows, 2001).

In addition, animals in captive breeding programmes provide educational and research value; visitors to the zoo can gain insight into the importance of protecting animals for conservation, thus increasing awareness for and interest in conservation issues.