Behind Bars | How Zoos And Aquariums Are Failing Animals

Did you know that your trip to the zoo/aquarium is perpetuating animal captivity? Animals kept in confinement and forced to be on display for human entertainment are not happy. Here is everything that is wrong with these institutions and what you can do about it.

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There is a debate as to whether Zoos and Aquariums are beneficial to the animal kingdom or whether they cause harm to species. Scandals involving zoos and aquariums further highlight the ethical issues at play. For example, the Berlin Zoo faced allegations of selling animals for slaughter, Ontario’s Bowmanville Zoo closed after its co-owner was filmed allegedly whipping a tiger, and nearly 500 animals died at England’s South Lakes Safari Zoo between 2013 and 2016 due to neglect and poor conditions. These incidents, among many others, underscore the widespread problem with these institutions.

This article looks at the damages caused to these creatures in captivity and the arguments put forward by both sides of the debate.

BENEFITS OF ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS

One of the main justifications for zoos and aquariums is their educational value. Visitors are allowed to see rare species, many of which they would never see in the wild, up close. This exposure could arguably inspire individuals to care about conservation and environmental protection.

Zoos and Aquariums also play a role in scientific research. Researchers can study animal behaviour, biology and conservation in a controlled environment, which could contribute to a broader knowledge of species.

Many of these institutions also have breeding programs and other conservation efforts. These programs aim to preserve endangered species by protecting them from poachers, habitat loss and other aspects that could be endangering them in the wild.

NEGATIVES OF ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS

The negative impacts of zoos and aquariums outweigh their benefits. Animals are sentient beings and when held in captivity they suffer from boredom, stress and confinement. The enclosures provided are far smaller and less stimulating than their natural habitats. Constantly having visitors, many of whom bang on the enclosures, exacerbates their anxiety. These artificial environments also don’t allow animals to engage in natural activities like hunting and foraging, leading to further frustration and psychological distress.

Another major issue, more commonly in aquariums, is the use of animals for performances. These performances, often with species like whales, seals and dolphins, are unnatural. These shows force animals to perform unnatural, highly stressful tricks. Animal shows have raised serious concerns from animal rights activists, particularly regarding the training methods employed.

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS

The arguments in place supporting zoos largely revolve around conservation. Claims argue that zoos and aquariums help preserve endangered species through breeding programs and public education. However, these resources could be redirected towards genuine conservation efforts that focus on protecting animals in their natural habitats.

Sanctuaries and wildlife/marine reserves offer a more humane alternative, allowing animals to live in environments similar to their natural settings. In these protected areas, animals can roam freely, engage in natural behaviours, and experience less stress compared to the confines of a zoo or aquarium.

SUSTAINABLE INSTITUTIONS

Some institutions notable for their commitment to the animals in their care include The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Monterey Bay Aquarium and The Elephant Nature Park.

The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust (DSWT) in Kenya is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants, allowing them to be reintroduced into the wild. Their sustainable approach focuses on minimising human contact to ensure elephants can thrive in their natural habitats. However, DSWT does offer limited visiting hours to see elephants in a natural setting, such as feeding time and bath time.

Monterey Bay Aquarium in California is a non-profit organisation and leader in marine conservation and education. They advocate for sustainable seafood practices and conducting critical research to protect marine ecosystems. One standout aspect of this institution is that they do not keep large marine mammals like orcas and dolphins in captivity. Monterey Bay Aquarium welcomes guests year-round to its educational exhibits.

Elephant Nature Park in Thailand serves as a sanctuary for rescued elephants, allowing them to live freely and interact naturally without the pressures of forced performances or unnatural behaviors. Elephant Nature Park offers immersive experiences, including day trips and volunteer programs, allowing visitors to contribute to animal care and conservation efforts.

LEARN MORE

If you are interested in learning more about the ethical issues surrounding animal captivity there are many steps you can take. There are many documentaries on Netflix about sustainable living, one of which is Blackfish. Blackfish is a documentary about killer whales forced to live and perform in captivity that shows the severity of what can happen to animals kept in such small enclosures and treated so inhumanely.

It is also important to research institutions before you visit them. Check the reviews, and the websites and speak to other people who have been before. Always choose sanctuaries or reserves over zoos and aquariums and make sure you do not bang on the glass or disturb the animals during your visit.

You can also donate to charities emphasising conservation and animal rights such as World Wildlife Fund (WWF) or The Humane Society International. Both of these organisations work to protect animals and their natural habitats.