The debate over whether zoos are genuinely beneficial is both complex and complicated, but there is one obvious answer – the majority of zoos do help improve the lives of animals in many different ways.
Zoos often participate in breeding programs for endangered species, intending to support demographic and genetic backup to wild populations; for example, the Arabian oryx – one of the first successful breeding projects.
The Arabian oryx roamed the Arabian Peninsula until it was driven to extinction. The Phoenix Zoo ignited a captive breeding experiment, and from 9 oryxes, over 200 offspring were produced. Because of the breeding programs, there are about 1,100 Arabian oryx in the wild.
Zoos’ use of advanced genome sequencing technology to analyze environmental DNA (eDNA) from tiger paw prints is changing conservation efforts. This method tracks individual tigers and their health, with ongoing trials at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park paving the way for broader application in their natural habitats.
Similarly, killer whales, with fewer than 75 Southern Resident individuals remaining, require innovative approaches to monitor their health. Researchers are now analyzing breath samples when they surface to blow out air. These samples could help researchers gain information on the creature’s well-being and help ensure their survival.
One main argument against zoos is how they all treat the animals poorly – this is far from the truth. Even though we can’t deny that some truly don’t care about animals, most love and protect endangered species. Animals in captivity can receive special diets and supplements, physical therapy, and even chemotherapy if they get sick. Through this medical care, they can live far longer than they would in the wild.
A study of more than 50 mammal species found that over 80% of animals in captivity lived longer than those in the wild.
Zoos will also reintroduce the animals back to the wild when they’re healthy again. These are called reintroduction programs, which are used for reestablishing or increasing animal populations that have suffered a critical decline.
While some zoos mistreat their animals and just use them for money, most zoos want to help animals live healthy, bright lives.
Their efforts show a strong commitment to protecting animal life and securing a future where all of them can thrive; zoos are making a real difference for some of the world’s most endangered species – many being the reason animals can thrive.
