Importance of a Zoo

Conservation

• The foremost aim of modern zoological gardens is to conserve international wildlife and biodiversity. Zoological gardens that are accredited by the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums take active responsibility for the survival of species, particularly those which are endangered. These zoos contribute toward conservation education and research and offer their visitors the opportunity to develop personal connections with the wild animals. Many breeding programs within the American zoo community act as safety nets, until individual animals can be reintroduced into nature.

Education

• International zoos are visited by millions of people annually, which puts them in a good position to educate the public about conservation issues. The living animal collection fascinates zoo visitors and makes them more receptive to receive and remember any conservation related messages they hear when in the zoo. Many zoological gardens also offer more formal lectures for both school going children and for adults.

Research

• Zoological gardens, because of the many different species they house, are perfectly positioned to conduct research on artificial reproduction techniques. Such research contributes toward retaining genetic variability, particularly in endangered species. Pilot studies in zoos include artificial insemination programs and embryo transplantation. The preservation of reproductive material, such as embryos and gametes, has also been achieved in modern zoological gardens. These frozen genetic reservoirs act as a safety net for an increasing number of endangered species. Behavior research is also carried out in most accredited zoos.

Recreation

• Zoological gardens offer safe and interesting venues for families and most offer restaurant or picnic facilities. Many zoos offer interactive activities, such as climbing frames near the ape enclosures, to encourage children to copy the animal's behavior. Some zoos have cable cars on their property, while others have boat rides and monorails. A number of zoos allow the public to pet certain animals and have their photograph taken with them. Visitors are also given the opportunity to feed certain animals and some zoos offer animal rides.