Animals & Zoos
1. Animal Welfare
Definitions
(1) (2) (3)
The provisions relevant to animal welfare in the Zoo Licensing Act 1981 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Regulations 2002 require zoos to be: 5. 1A. (c) accommodating their animals under conditions which aim to satisfy the biological and conservation requirements of the species to which they belong, including(i) providing each animal with an environment well-adapted to meet the physical, psychological and social needs of the species to which it belongs; and (ii) providing a high standard of animal husbandry with a developed programme of preventative and curative veterinary care and nutrition; Welfare goals of Zoos
I. II. III.
Euthanasia
- Necessary evil as resources are not infinite and have to be used carefully. - E.g.
Breeding Management
- The breeding of animals in captivity has to be controlled. Where all their needs for breeding are met, animal populations increase geometrically. - Zoo can regulate captive populations by (i) (ii)
Transport
- In order to maintain genetic diversity, zoo animal populations are typically managed at national or international level with individuals being moved between zoos for breeding. - N.B. The legal framework providing protection for the welfare of animals during transport is established in Europe by the Council Regulation EC 1/2005 of 22nd December 2004 on the protection of animals during transport and related operations (EC Regulation, 2005). Valuable guidance on animal transport is provided by IATA (2004).
Food For Thought
- The Moral Considerability of Animals - The Moral Significance of Animals Moral Claims
2. Importance of Zoo
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) found that: I. II. III. IV. V.
Impact of a visit to a Zoo
I. II. III. IV. Identity- Related Motivations Gains in Knowledge Changes in Attitudes Long-term Learning and Attitudes
Why do people visit a zoo?
I. Facilitators
II.
Explorers
III.
Experience Seekers
IV.
Professional/ Hobbyist
V.
Spiritual Pilgrim
Food For Thought
- Responsibility of a zoo
3. World Conservation Zoo Strategy
The World Zoo Conservation Strategy is an initiative of IUDZGThe World Zoo Organization, and the Captive Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG) of the Species Survival Commission of IUCNThe World Conservation Union. It demonstrates that zoo and aquarium community is able and prepared to dedicate its great potential to conservation and that there is a definite course of action to be followed to this purpose. - The primary aim is to support the conservation of species, natural habitats and ecosystems. - Its five objectives are: o o o o o
Zoo community can help to achieve these goals by: o o o Ex Situ Conservation o o o Capacity o o o Artificial reproduction and Cryopreservation o o Back to Nature : Zoo Animals for reintroduction and restocking o VORTEX is a powerful computer program for assessing species population viability on the basis of genetic, demographic, ecological, and catastrophic factors. It has been applied to wild populations of rhinos, puma, and other species as well as to captive populations. More and more, zoos are linking their work directly to the survival of species in the wild via educational exhibits. o
Further Roles of Zoos for Consideration
Zoological gardens provide an opportunity to open up a whole new world of curiosity and interest, and sensitize visitors regarding the value and need for conservation of wildlife. Zoos were initially started for the entertainment of people. Gradually over the years, they have come to play an important role in conservation. The ultimate goal of zoos is the conservation of animals in the wild and with the UN declaring the coming decade as decade for Sustainable Development zoos definitely can and need to play a major role. Centre for Environment Education (CEE), India o o o o o o
Interpretation programs
o o o The Delhi Zoo The Arignar Anna Zoological Park, one of the largest zoos of South-east Asia Signage and exhibits developed for the Coimbatore Zoo
Training Programs
o CEE in collaboration with the Madras Crocodile Bank Trust organized a three-day training programme entitled Environment Education and Interpretation through Nature Discovery Centre for the Crocodile Bank Staff, local teachers, NGOs and other interested individuals. CEE also coordinated a three-day module on Zoo Education and Interpretation for middle-level zoo personnel, veterinarians and zoo education officers. The module was developed in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India. The module focused on importance of Zoo Education, Interpretation and Conservation Education. Emphasis was given to different approaches in zoo education and the participants went through several exercises and hands-on experiences. A training programme was organized by CEE in collaboration with the Mysore Zoo. The training programme was organized for zoo volunteers, teachers, NGOs and few media personnel. The participants were exposed to various approaches in Environmental Education (EE), use of media in zoos and opportunities for using EE in Basics of Interpretation of zoos. A SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunities, and threats) analysis was carried out and an exercise on linking zoo and school curriculum was also done. Then all the participants drew out an individual Annual Action Plan of activities. CEE has also brought out a manual for teachers entitled Wild at the Zoo An Information and Activity Manual on Educational Opportunities in a Zoo. This manual contains many activities that can be conducted by school teachers in the zoo during their visits. These activities are linked to the school curriculum and thus aid in enhancing concepts learnt in the school system. This manual has also been adapted and translated into a few local languages. CEEs Zoo Education programmes support zoo managements, teachers, NGOs and others who use zoos as educational facilities.
o o
Supporting zoo education
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