More than 3,000 animals are being kept in captivity for entertainment. That is the reality of Melbourne Zoo.
For years, Melbourne Zoo has maintained a reputation of being a leading organisation in terms of conservation efforts. They claim that their goal is to be "the world’s leading zoo-based conservation organisation”, and frame their campaigns and advertisements around this messaging.
However, the truth is that the majority of Melbourne Zoo’s conservation efforts are put towards native Australian wildlife. But still they maintain their captivity of over 200 species that are not involved in their ‘Conservation Master Plan.’
This leads to an obvious question: what are these animals being kept for, if not conservation? The fundamental truth about Melbourne Zoo, and zoos in general, is that they are utilising the animals they keep in cages to earn donations and profits from the public.
While Melbourne Zoo claims that these funds are being put towards worthwhile conservation programs, what choice do the animals get?
Being kept in an inappropriate environment, animals at Melbourne Zoo demonstrated clear signs of stress and anxiety. Exhibited by pacing, repetitive behaviors, and aggression. This lack of true care for the animals they claim to be saving undermines the messaging they present to the public.
It does not matter what their motivations are. Captivity is not conservation.
