VERY recently, I have visited the Melbourne Zoo, just for sightseeing. Apparently, there were many posters and billboards hung up reading things like, “Not for profit!” or, “Help prevent extinction!” Throughout the past few years, this has been a growing concern, with many species near extinction. So, I made an article, based on what I believe is correct for them. Here is the text:
Should Animals be Purposely Kept in Zoos?
During the European settlement, there were 5,000 Tasmanian Tigers in the world; or mainly in Australia. 3 centuries and a half later? They went extinct. Why was this? Well, simply humans. Nowadays, zoos hold many unique animals to prevent their species existence from ceasing. But if they are only there to make profit off visitors, what’s the point to try to keep certain animals alive? Besides, would it even be better to let them remain in the wild?
To begin with, if we do decide to supervise them in zoos, we must understand that this is NOT to gain any money from tourists. The entire reason is to ensure that animals can thrive without being at risk against other animals. As long as zookeepers only care about money, there would be nothing for animals to enjoy apart from a compact enclosure and scheduled feeding times. If and only if all goes right, it would be very unlikely to see a deserted planet without animals, with us humans struggling to survive. If not, well, it won’t only be the extinction of animals.
Alternatively, if we keep them in the wild, they may put at a greater risk than being sheltered in zoos. This does mean that they will remain used to their own designated habitat, and create a normal routine for themselves. However, predators are a likely threat to them, and it is probable that they will be killed for food. Yet, this does maintain the food chain across all animals; on land or under the sea. Without the cycle, many species wouldn’t be able to find food or giving birth to new ones. Even so, this could lead to severe extinction. Exactly like a chain, if a part of the rod is unstable, or likely to collapse, it impacts the rest of it, no matter how long it is.
After considering this, it is quite obvious that animals should remain in their own homes rather than being sheltered by zoos. However, zoos would provide a safer home for them to stay in and protect them from common predators. This debate does not have a clear answer, nor any other unknown query. The only way to find out, is to make it happen.
If you’re thinking to give out a voice regarding this topic, click here to find the link to Quora where you can post a comment too!
Peace! ✌