“Tilikum the orca has spent the majority of his life in a contained bubble. Weighing nearly 12,000 pounds and identifiable by his signature curved dorsal fin” (Ranker). This description should immediately spark the question, “Are zoos ethical?”. Animals should be out in the wild asserting their true predator and prey mannerisms instead of being confined by four walls, depended on for entertainment, and fed only to learn new tricks. They are like humans; they have a mind and body that should be treated like temples, not cargo or toys used to bring in money and people.
Unsanitary, understaffed, and unhealthy food are just a few reasons zoos are unethical. Additionally, the mental and physical detriment to animals’ health has derived from being held captive. The amount of weight they gain is outrageous. As stated in the first paragraph, some animals weigh up to 1200 or more. This is due to their mostly sedentary lives and not being able to roam freely in the wild since captive animals are confined to four walls. Along with physical health, many animals suffer from mental health. Because many animals “lack environmental enrichment” and “an ability to engage in natural behaviors,” they resort to abnormal ones (Born Free).
Although there are many negative sides to zoos, there are also positive aspects: Kayla Duke (11), a student at YLHS, says, “I like going to zoos since they give me a new perspective on animals, open doors to zoology opportunities, and educate me.” Zoos have a lot of information that can greatly educate you, but at what cost? Animals are being stripped from their natural habitats, exhibiting abnormal behaviors, and detrimentally altering their physical and mental health.
Although the structure of zoos can be questioned, many are using their facilities in a new way. There are already many zoos and organizations taking a stand. SAFE- Savings Animals From Extinction- helps zoos take in animals on the verge of extinction by providing them with resources. This program is amazing because it switches the perspective of animal captivity to saving animals. They provide a safe place for animals away from poachers or predators causing their extinction. Some zoos are used in unethical ways, but in others, animals are given a haven where they are nourished and cared for. Opening up zoo facilities for endangered animals is the best way to ensure they are treated with the respect they deserve.
