Public zoos have long been regarded as a venue for leisure as well as education. Some people argue that it is beneficial to shut down zoos as they are perceived to be cruel to animals, while others contend that zoos serve an important role in education and conservation of wildlife. In my opinion, the positive outcomes of closing zoos surpass the drawbacks. This essay shall delve into both perspectives while elucidating my stance.
Zoos serve as enclosures for animals and various forms of wildlife, including birds and reptiles. An enclosure prevents animals from exploring their natural habitat, since it encapsulates them within a restricted space, hindering movement. Furthermore, the inherent survival instincts of solitary animals are suppressed as they are regularly fed by the staff. For instance, lions and tigers are periodically fed large proportions of meat by their handlers. This starkly contrasts to their innate nature to hunt prey for food. Subsequently, when they are later released in forest reserves, their dominating nature to hunt for food becomes affected. Moreover, numerous visitors at zoos tease the animals within their enclosure, causing them psychological distress. Such behavior is considered cruel to the animals by wildlife activists, and they campaign for the animals to be released into their natural habitat with the closure of zoos.
Conversely, certain individuals believe that the existence of zoos is pivotal for education and conservation of wildlife. Zoologists frequently visit these establishments, and observing wildlife in an artificially constructed enclosure helps them to conduct extensive research. Additionally, many schools organize educational trips for children to zoos, where the pupils are taught practical aspects of animals and their habitat. In addition to educational causes, another important factor concerns conservation. Zoos serve as a safe haven for numerous endangered animals. Hunting of endangered animals has led to the extinction of several of their species, and zoos provide these voiceless creatures a home. As an example, Mark, a wildlife conservation activist in Africa, stated that the hunting of Asiatic tigers nearly led to their extinction in Tanzania. Since the local forest department moved these animals to zoos, they have been comparatively safe.
In conclusion, the existence of zoos has been an aspect of a growing debate among sections of society. While there are important outcomes to the continuation and maintenance of zoos, the positive outcomes of closing them – such as animals returning to their natural habitat and the prevention of their teasing by the public significantly surpass the drawbacks.