Zoo's Efforts to Help Conservation

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Since approximately 1250 B.C., ancient Egyptians had created and practiced the capture and display of animals in what are now known as zoos (Fravel). Records describe such exotic animals as birds, lions, giraffes, and tigers in captivity (Fravel). Since then, zoos have continued to entertain millions with the exciting chance to view exotic animals up close and personal. Even in ancient Greece, exotic animals were on display in fighting arenas, and in enclosed viewing areas. Originally in America, zoos were just created so that royalty and the wealthy could flaunt their exotic animals to the public (Leolupus). Today, with species threatened and habitats disappearing worldwide, zoos are serving a new purpose other than the mere exhibition of animals – conservation. (Fravel). When you think of a zoo, you either think of a fun, entertaining place that provides close-up and exciting exhibits of wild animals that you would otherwise never get the chance to see, or a place where people keep suffering, unhappy animals captive just for entertainment and display. However, despite whichever view you hold, and despite the stereotypes, some zoos have evolved to serve alternative and helpful purposes. Although some zoos face controversy due to allegations such as lack of space and quality care, neglect, and cruelty, some zoos have programs specifically designed to help and protect animal species. For example, these zoos have programs that help such conservation efforts as breeding. Because of breeding, such endangered species, two examples of which being the golden lion tamarin and the Przewalski’s wild horse, have improved in numbers significantly (Smithsonian). Although they are bred in captivity, it protects and preserves the animals from s... ... middle of paper ... ...za.org/reintroduction-programs/>. Fravel, L..N.p.. Web. 9 Jan 2014. . Leolupus , . N.p.. Web. 7 Jan 2014. . Miller, A.. N.p.. Web. 7 Jan 2014. . N.p.. Web. 7 Jan 2014. . Smithsonian National Zoological Park, . N.p.. Web. 7 Jan 2014. . Southwick, . N.p.. Web. 7 Jan 2014. difference-in-the-plight-of-endangered-animals/>. Traw, Kelly, . N.p.. Web. 7 Jan 2014. .

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