humanespot.org humanespot.org humanespot.org
 
 

Zoos

 

There are Big Gaps in our Knowledge, and thus Approach, to Zoo Animal Welfare

by
Gaps in knowledge about zoo animals prevent improving animal welfare. Society tends to value environmental variables like space and companionship over other factors that may affect animal welfare. In addition, focus on mammals hinders efforts to improve the welfare of other species. By closing gaps of knowledge concerning zoo animals, society may improve the state of zoo animal welfare.

Programmatic Approaches to Assessing and Improving Animal Welfare in Zoos and Aquariums

|
by
This article argues that the study, analysis, and sharing of information on animal welfare programs among different zoos and aquariums will potentially lead to improved animal welfare among all facilities.

Upcoming 3rd Wave of HRC's Animal Tracker

| | | | | |
Wave 3 of HRC's Animal Tracker, slated for early next year, will survey a representative sample of adults in the U.S., addressing questions like knowledge of various animal issues, the influence of concern for animals on personal choices, perceived impact of the animal protection movement, and support for the movement's goal of eliminating animal suffering. We'll also be able to compare the results with findings from the baseline survey, which was conducted in early 2008.

Animal-Visitor Interactions in the Modern Zoo: Conflicts and Interventions

by
The objectives of zoos can conflict; for example, animal welfare, education, conservation, research, and entertainment. An examination of research centered around animal-visitor interactions concludes that exhibit design, species characteristics, and visitor education can positively affect animal-visitor interactions.

Chinese University Students' Attitudes Toward the Ethical Treatment and Welfare of Animals

| | | | |
by
Chinese university students have generally positive attitudes toward animal welfare initiatives, which according to this article's author, suggests that the Chinese public is perhaps open and ready to support the changes needed to improve animal welfare standards in the country.

Boston Pride for Zoo New England

by
An editorial including a financial analysis addressing the tightened budget of Zoo New England with statistics on zoo attendance in the New England area. The findings show that cost per visitor decreased from 2006 to 2007, but the Franklin Park Zoo cost per visitor is one of the highest in the country.

Zoos Mean Shorter Lives for Elephants

|
by
According to a study of more than 4,500 elephants, researchers have found evidence that zoos can shorten the adult lifespans of both African and Asian elephants. Death rates among Asian elephant calves are also higher in zoos. An estimated 2,000 elephants worldwide live in zoos, safari parks, sanctuaries, circuses, and private residences.

What are Zoos for?

by
A brief overview of the zoo, particularly as a form of family entertainment, is presented in this article. Included is a discussion of the purpose of a zoo.

The Animal Tracker (Wave 2 - March 2009)

| | | | |
by
This report summarizes results from Wave 2 of the Animal Tracker annual survey of U.S. adults regarding attitudes and behavior toward animals. The first survey (Wave 1, 2008) included sixteen questions; the Wave 2 survey repeated six questions from Wave 1. In summary, the most recent survey continues to show strong support for the protection of all animals, although in some instances that support decreased slightly compared with the Wave 1 results.

Elephants in Zoos at Risk of Abnormal Behavior Because of Small Groups

|
by
Research by Salford University shows that most elephants in zoos are kept in small groups, which may cause them to display abnormal behavior. As of 2006, at least two-thirds of the world's zoos keep elephants in groups of four or fewer.


Was this information helpful?

If so, please consider a donation to the Humane Research Council to help us with the costs of maintaining, expanding, and improving HumaneSpot.org.