“It’s a fine line on some of these things...”
At our local zoo the large animals are in really large habitats - not the cages from years gone by. Of course now there is no guarantee that you will be able to get a good look at the animal if they are off in a corner behind the trees. But it is pretty cool to look out on an “African Savanah” and see hippos, giraffe, wildebeasts, springbok, antelope, etc. all mingled together. (The lions have their own large space!)
And lots of descriptions of some of the animals endangered status, and reasons why (habitat, poaching, etc.). So it is a learning experience, with one of the goals to have people appreciate the animals and their predicament in the wild and what one can do to help.
It has been awhile since I’ve been to the circus - but I recall I thought it was “demeaning” to the lions, etc. to be doing their tricks. Although I doubt they care or know any different. Just like my dog, as long as they are being well cared for, fed, etc.
I would like to see larger animals such as lions and tigers set free in larger habitats...may I suggest Massachusetts?
Of course, there is the occasional newsworthy animal lover who solves that problem by climbing the fence.....
Of course, there is the occasional newsworthy animal lover who solves that problem by climbing the fence.....
Great post and well written on the zoo concept and its positives.
Zoo animals are “trained” and its pretty awful , but will research more of that.