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Rethinking the Ethics and Safety of Zoos

From Ed Boks / nimal Politics
September 2024

In recent weeks, two incidents have highlighted the ongoing ethical and safety concerns surrounding zoos, raising questions about their role in modern society. These events underscore the argument that zoos may no longer be safe or ethical places for animals. 

Animal Politics

In recent weeks, two incidents have highlighted the ongoing ethical and safety concerns surrounding zoos, raising questions about their role in modern society. These events underscore the argument that zoos may no longer be safe or ethical places for animals.

Tragic Deaths at Jacksonville Zoo

In a distressing incident at the Jacksonville Zoo this past August, three apes died due to a Shigella infection, a bacterial disease that affects the digestive system. This tragedy underscores the vulnerability of animals in captivity to diseases that may not be as prevalent in their natural habitats. The confined spaces and artificial environments of zoos can exacerbate the spread of infections, posing significant health risks to the animals. The infection likely spread through contaminated food, water, or feces, and while the exact source remains unclear, the consequences were devastating.

The deaths of Bulera, a western lowland gorilla, and two bonobos, Jumanji and Jenga, who had pre-existing heart conditions, highlight the challenges zoos face in providing adequate veterinary care and ensuring the overall safety of their environments. Captivity can exacerbate health issues due to stress and lack of natural living conditions, making it difficult for animals to cope with infections like Shigella.

Lowland Gorilla
Western Lowland Gorilla, photo by Mehmet Suat Gunerli

Bonobos
Bonobos, photo by mmcclain90 from Pixabay

The zoo's response involved implementing strict biosecurity measures, such as the use of personal protective equipment and enhanced sanitation procedures, to prevent further spread of the infection. Despite these efforts, the loss of these beloved animals has been a difficult time for the staff, who are working tirelessly to care for the remaining apes. This incident raises questions about the adequacy of veterinary care and the overall safety of zoo environments for animals.

Orangutan Escape at Toronto Zoo

In another alarming event, an orangutan at the Toronto Zoo managed to escape its enclosure. While the animal was safely recaptured, this incident highlights the potential dangers that zoo enclosures can pose, both to the animals and to the public. Escapes can lead to stressful situations for the animals and potential harm if they encounter humans or other animals outside their enclosures. This event underscores the argument that zoos may not be able to provide the secure and enriching environments that animals need.

Orangutan
Orangutan escape from Toronto Zoo highlights zoo’s inability to provide secure and enriching environments, photo by Andrea Hoja from Pixabay

Ethical Considerations

The ethical implications of keeping animals in zoos have been debated for years. Critics argue that zoos prioritize entertainment over the well-being of animals, often keeping them in environments that fail to meet their physical and psychological needs. The mental anguish and stress experienced by animals in captivity are well-documented, with many showing signs of distress and abnormal behavior due to confinement.

The justification of zoos as centers for education and conservation is increasingly being questioned. While some zoos contribute to conservation efforts, the overall impact is often limited, and the educational value is debated. Critics argue that observing animals in artificial settings does not provide meaningful insights into their natural behaviors or habitats.

Alternatives to Traditional Zoos

As public sentiment shifts towards more ethical treatment of animals, alternatives to traditional zoos are being proposed. Large animal sanctuaries, where animals can live in more natural and spacious environments, are gaining support. These sanctuaries focus on rehabilitation and conservation without the commercial pressures faced by zoos. They offer a more humane approach to wildlife conservation, aligning with the growing call for ethical treatment of animals.

The recent incidents at the Jacksonville and Toronto zoos underscore growing concerns about the safety and ethicality of zoos. These events are not isolated but part of a broader trend questioning the ability of zoos to provide safe, healthy, and enriching environments for animals.

As public awareness of these issues increases, it becomes essential to re-evaluate the role of zoos and consider alternatives that prioritize animal welfare over entertainment and commercial interests. Large sanctuaries offer a more humane and sustainable model of conservation, aligning with contemporary values and paving the way for a future where animals are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve. The need for this shift is reflected in a growing body of literature and public discourse advocating for more ethical models of animal care.

Ed Boks is a former Executive Director of the New York City, Los Angeles, and Maricopa County Animal Care and Control Departments. His work has been published in the LA Times, New York Times, Newsweek, Real Clear Policy, Sentient Media, and now on Animal Politics with Ed Boks. He is available for consultations at [email protected].

Posted on All-Creatures.org: September 7, 2024
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