Reply #46: I recognize why some some zoos and aquariums are criticized. [View All]

[davsand]

I agree fully that some of them do not provide habitat for the animals that maintains both mental as well as physical health. It is deplorable, and it is something that needs to be changed.

HOWEVER, a zoo or aquarium may be the ONLY opportunity that a lot of people ever have to see certain species. I understand that it is not ideal--that it'd be a whole lot better to see those animals in their natural environment--but those environments are being lost rapidly, and most folks can never afford to travel extensively.

My kid would never have seen a live lion or any primates living here in the Midwest--except we have made it a point to take her to see these animals. We have also made it a point to explain that we have to work harder at preserving these (and all other) species along with their natural habitat.

My kid has been to places like Shedd Aquarium and the Indianapolis Zoo, and she has had an opportunity to learn both respect for the animals as well as the environment.

Is that ideal? No, I'd much rather have been able to take her to Africa or to some offshore reef, but we don't have THAT kind of money.

If you find a place that you feel provides sub standard care for the animals then fight to change THAT.


Laura