Animal Captivity
By Griffin Corry
Cons of Zoos and Aquariums
- Many animals show signs of zoochosis after being in captivity.
- Scientific testing can be unreliable.
- Confining animals can be dangerous to the health of the animals as well as that of the humans.
- Although some zoos are starting to make better conservation efforts, the collective effort is still sub-par.
- Places like SeaWorld put the stress of performing on the animal.
Gus, a polar bear that was an icon of the Central Park Zoo, exhibited traits of zoochosis.
Orcas at SeaWorld go through a strenuous lifestyle.
Silverback Gorilla Charges And Cracks Safety Glass
Pros of Zoos and Aquariums
- Allows great scientific contributions
- Great family experience, allows people to learn more about animals
- Can provide a quality of life as high or higher than in the wild
- Animals do not have to worry about predators or getting food
- Make sure the animals are healthy
- Advancements in recent years have made many zoos cleaner, safer, and better overall for animals.
- Many zoos have made animal conservation much more effective. Ex. Saint Louis Zoo --> WildCare Institute (See below)
A lemur in Madagascar on one of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Institute branches throughout the world.
A group of endangered Humboldt penguins being helped as a part of the WildCare Institute's efforts in Peru.
Blue footed boobies are among the many avian species that the WildCare Institute is helping conserve in the Galapagos Islands.
Social Ethics of Animal Captivity
- Act Utilitarianism
- Captivity vs. No captivity = Humans vs. Animals