My Zoo View

I had a small discussion last week with a friend after our trip to the Como Zoo in St. Paul, MN. We both share similar views on zoos, so she was interested in our trip.

I wouldn’t go so far as to say that I’m “anti-zoo”. However, my concern is based on a few things. First, do polar bears belong in areas where summer heats reach 100+? Do lions and tigers belong in areas where winter temperatures drop below zero? These are obviously not anything close to their native habitats.

Then there’s the matter of space. None of these animals belong in the small confines they are kept in at almost any zoo. Some of the larger zoos are able to give them acreage, but still it’s nothing compared to what they would be able to roam in the wild. More than once – sadly, quite often, actually – when I have been at a zoo I have seen animals displaying repetitive behaviors. Most notably has been the polar bears who swim back and forth or pace back and forth in the exact same pattern over and over and over again. This is a sign of depression. A number of years ago, Gus, the polar bear at the Central Park Zoo in NYC underwent treatment for his depression and psychotic behaviors and his living space was modified to help stimulate him. Thankfully he is doing better now, but this is a direct correlation to the fact that he was living in a space too small and without stimulation.

Zoos DO do wonderful things. They help with preserving endangered species, such as the panda. They give people the chance to see and learn about animals that do not exist natively in the United States (but that again goes back to my concern with climate, etc). But the problem with breeding and reproducing is that once the animals are born in captivity, their chance for survival in their native habitat is slim. If they are born in captivity, they will likely live out their lives that way.

Most zoos are accredited and are closely monitored and have to stick to strict regulations put forth by the AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums). Thankfully most zoos in the US are AZA accredited and safely meet the needs of the animals who reside there. The habitats are sanitary, food is safe, and animals are well cared for.

We do support the Wild Animal Sanctuary located about 20 minutes North of us. They rehabilitate and house wild animals that have been found in poor conditions. They are given many acres to roam free with multiple other animals of their species. While it’s not their native habitat, they are not kept in close quarters and are able to socialize appropriately. We also travel to the mountains (fortunately it’s only a 40 minute drive or so) where we have seen numerous wild animals in their own habitat. We’ve seen big horn sheep, elk, and bison more than once.

At the end of the day, I know that zoos are taking care of their animals. But, deep down, I still feel conflicted about going there because of the reasons I stated above. Ultimately, my plan is to teach Violet as she grows up that zoos are fine, but that it’s not normal for an animal to be kept in unnatural surroundings. Unfortunately, we’re not independently wealthy, so we won’t be able to travel the world to see animals in their natural habitats, so aside from watching Animal Planet or Discovery Channel, zoos provide people the opportunity to see these animals up close. Zoos offer great learning tools for children where they can learn about animals of the world, and that makes them valuable resources. I won’t ever tell Violet she can’t go to the zoo, but I don’t think we’ll ever be that family to own a season pass.