Readin 3. – Zoo

There have been a lot of pressures on zoos. The pressure is noticeable from the frequent protests, and anti-zoo campaigns. Animal welfare and rights groups are constantly challenging animal enclosures.

Zoos are blamed for keeping exotic species in environments with unsuitable climates. Additionally many animals are held in sub- standard conditions, for example, large species in small places. Often, social species are kept in solitary confinement or inappropriate groupings. Animals are placed in an artificial setting. They cannot display some of their inherent behaviour, such as hunting or even dust bathing. Some of them show signs of distress and unusual behaviour, for example pacing back and forth or hitting their heads on bars. A lot of reptile facilities and aquariums still follow traditional and outdated designs. Other more modern practices, such as the selfie photo opportunities or animal circus type shows, also conflict with modern understanding on animal care and welfare.

It is becoming obvious that zoos must change and adapt to new standards and they must meet 21st century animal welfare and ethical values. Most people think progress is a steady upward trend, and that zoos will just get better. But evolution is like a tree branching in all directions: it’s hard to predict. Will there be zoos in the future at all?

Zoos defend their existence by asserting significance. Zoos are educational and help people, mainly young children, to connect to animals. Sometimes wild animals around the world need saving from natural or man-made disasters like floods, fires, wars or illegal trading. Veterinary help, emergency relief or rescues are carried out regularly by animal welfare organisations. Several zoos and zoo staff are uniquely qualified to help both rescues and rehoming to support immediate or long- term recovery.

Like everything, zoos must evolve with the times. Good zoos will share their experiences and expertise to support all animals. They will use a recording system that allows staff to recognise and monitor individual animal health and behavioural statuses, and they will know each of their animals by name, personality and preferences. Future zoos will think outside the box. They will capitalise on digital opportunities, conveying educational messages through multi-sensory experiences, and encouraging visitors to communicate with each other. 4D and augmented reality opportunities will enable visitors to view and interact with digitally-composed animals, so certain species won’t be held in captivity. It will give an up-close and personal experience.

Many hope that zoos will continue to serve as a fun, entertaining and highly educational attraction for generations to come, while many others are hoping to put an end to live animal shows.