They also take on the additional cost of providing lifetime care for every animal. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. "A high proportion of the big cities in the world are built around the coast, because of their ports. Unlike zoos, sanctuaries receive no government or municipal funding, rely on small staffs supplemented by volunteers, and operate on shoestring budgets. Theyre also the zoo where a toddler fell over the barrier into the African Painted Dogs exhibit and was killed. Copyright 2022 Travel + Leisure Co. All Rights Reserved. This snowy space is also a rescue for polar bears, focusing on injured and orphaned polar bear cubs - the only one of its kind in the country. This site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. To pressure zoos and aquariums to spend less on their animals would lead to inhumane outcomes for the precious creatures in their care. Look for the AZA accreditation logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. The remaining elephant survived, but reportedly,has been kept in isolation there due to issues with the other elephants, leaving this highly social creature alone, while activists petition for her move to a sanctuary. Cincinnati has recently welcomed another new arrival to the zoo - a baby hippo named Fiona was born here in 2017. One of the biggest criticisms of zoos and aquariums (or indeed of captive animals as a whole), is that creatures can suffer from "lack of stimulation", with limited space to roam outside of their new habitats and less companions with whom to enjoy "complex social relationships". What are the sides to the zoo debate? With more than 4,000 animals sprinkled across the lush rainforest landscape, the Singapore Zoo is a not-to-miss zoo destination. Denver Zoological Gardens, Colo. The entertainment of visitors is crucial, and animals often suffer because of that. That being said, please let me know in the comments the name of zoos or sanctuaries that you believe could serve as a guide or even as a source of inspiration when it comes to proper animal care. St Louis is also well known for its conservation efforts, but there are plenty of fun activities for kids as well. The Natural Bridge Zoo in Rockbridge County, Virginia, is more of a roadside attraction than a zoo (despite the name), and has become infamous for its poor treatment of star attraction Asha, an African elephant. SEA LIFE Orlando, Fla. Scovill Zoo, Ill. Toledo Zoological Gardens, Ohio Topeka Zoo, Kan. Tulsa Zoo, Okla. Zoo Boise, Idaho The 84-acre zoo that is home to lions, zebras and elephants was joined alongside world renown facilities such as the San Diego Zoo, Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park and the Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington D.C. Adoptable animals include but are not limited to giraffes, rhinos, and red pandas. Animals end up stressed and unhealthy or dead. While seeing its animals (including everything from sloths to African penguins) is great, itseducational programsmake this zoo even better, especially for families with young children. It's clear there's a delicate balance between protecting these animals and imprisoning them. The Brookfield Zoo operated by CZS participates in an initiative known as animal husbandry, which essentially attempts to match the wild ecosystem and social settings these animals would have enjoyed. "Oceans, sunlight, weather and volcanoes - together these powerful yet fragile Only a few years earlier, the zoo was fined by the USDA for 51 willful violations of the Animal Welfare Act, including failure to provide vet care for the elephants living here. and the zoo has been found in violation of USDA law every year for the past several years. In 2016 Yang the panda became the first in the history of captivity to raise twin cubs without human intervention. "There are some animals that thrive in captivity and some don't," he reasons. The goal of this search is to have more information about ethical zoos and how local zoos could learn from them to improve their care. To secure a better future for these animals and all wildlife, the Oregon Zoo undertakes long- and short-term research projects and works to recover native species on the brink of extinction. More recently, PETA took the park to court over the fate of 19 tigers taken in from a Florida zoo, and the shooting of an escaped tiger by park staff. Zoos can be controversial, however, manyprovide the opportunity for people to learn about the global environment and work to help preserve critical species for generations to come. They are committed to answering some of nature's most complex questions and challenged and using that information to better the lives and wellbeing of the animals. I am surprised he hasn't escaped. So not only can you come to visit its 350 different species, but you can also take in the spectacular view. This is something highlighted again and again by campaigners such as Freedom For Animals and PETA. Most important, Ms. Marris glosses over the true value of zoos and aquariums. Any zoo, aquarium, or amusement park that houses animals and is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). Located in Omaha, Nebraska, the Henry Doorly Zoo is famous for its huge geodesic dome. To help you determine the best and most ethical zoos in the U.S., the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) came up with a list of AZA-accredited locations that provide excellent care for animals and a better future for all living things. Smithsonians National Zoois more than a space to view animals. Recognizing and advertising animal welfare is essential to the promotion of positive changes in facilities around the world. Image credit: Trabantos/Shutterstock.com Voted the best zoo in Europe for five years in a row, this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site is home for more than 700 species of animals. The Alaska Zoois one of the smaller ones to make this global list, but for a good reason. Its nothing serious, Im just interested in the topic and like to talk about it with my friends. They old the belief that when a child is exposed to the wildlife they see through a digital screen, a spark is ignited for change. So, we decided to put the question to the one and only Sir David Attenborough - because, after all, if anybody is a true authority on the natural world, it's him. Granted the zoo resembled a menagerie in its past, the zoo has transformed since 1980. This Canadian zoo provides guests with an open and approachable strategic plan, as well as a master plan for the next 15 to 20 years, which can be found on their website for anyone looking to conduct their own research regarding the Toronto Zoo. Sure, you can visit some of its adorable creatures, but it also happens to be a global leader in conservation efforts and is part of the Smithsonian Institution, the worlds largest museum, and research complex, meaning it has the resources to truly help the animal kingdom. Zoo #proponents argue "the institutions are With pros and cons linked to #zoos, are these conservation and research tools still relevant? "There's a huge difference between a 'zoo' and an accredited zoo, and when you look at that list of zoos there is a big difference between animal care and conservation efforts," said Jake Kubie, a spokesperson for the Denver Zoo. On the conservation side of things, the zoo established two institutes to further its work: the WildCare Institute, which aids initiatives that protect animals from disease, poaching, and shrinking habitats, and the Institute for Conservation Medicine, which researches the impact infectious diseases have on the long-term survival of species and the health of animals, humans, and ecosystems. The Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle struck me as very well done. Peoria Zoo, Ill. Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium, Wash. Potter Park Zoological Gardens, Mich. Pueblo Zoo, Colo. Racine Zoological Gardens, Wis. Riverside Discovery Center, Neb. American Humane, the countrys first national humane organization, certifies the humane treatment of animals in more than 60 zoos and aquariums around the globe. Proponents argue the institutions are safe, controlled environments where the public can view and learn about wild animals.. Were it not for opportunities to observe these beautiful, wild creatures close to home, many more people would be driven by their fascination to travel to wild areas to seek out, disturb and even hunt them down. From this list, we selected 14 of the most popular zoos in the U.S., according to the AZA, to make your next visit a little easier to plan. Not all these zoos on this list are found in the US, but they are all accredited through some form of organization with conservation and education at their forefront. You might not expect to find red pandas, Indian rhinos, snow leopards, and Amur tigers in Omaha, but all it takes is a visit to the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium to see these amazing creatures up close. What is the most ethical zoo in the world? "(It's) the most important thing that we do and it's critical to our mission," Kubie said. These zoological institutions receive our Humane Certified seal as they meet or exceed a science-based set of criteria evaluated by independent auditors who have no stake in the outcome of their decision. Sanctuaries are a growing and ethical alternative to animals kept in captivity and on display. The Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries is the accrediting body for sanctuaries, with 200 members in the United States and abroad. Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, Ind. The Houston Zoo sees a whopping two million annual visitors, and there's a good reason for that. Answer (1 of 3): I cannot think of any that I would endorse, but, and this is a big but, I do not approve of zoos. Renowned across the country, San Diego's zoo, founded in 1916, is home to over 12,000 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies. Toledo Zoological Gardens, Ohio "So, it's important that the public at large should be aware of the reality of these things.". (Still, itscheetah cubsare pretty cute.). Big cats are kept here in small enclosures that are not designed to mimic the natural habitats of the creatures, and are used for animal tourism, where visitors are allowed to pay, to pet and handle the big cats. The result is a healthy, happy hippo whose journey is followed by millions. They are profitable institutions whose bottom line is much more important than the condition of the animals. Travel + Leisure is published by Meredith Corporation under license from Travel + Leisure Co. The zoo's Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute plays a huge role in the Smithsonian's efforts to inspire and train future conservationists as well as save wildlife species from extinction. Show Me More What is the #1 zoo in the USA? At least they had the good sense to transfer the dogs to a different zoo. Some of the projects the zoo has taken on include trying to revive the Great Lakes Piping Plover through incubating abandoned eggs, and working to rehabilitation African penguins chicks that are abandoned at birth. Animals from all over the world including wallabies, lions, and dolphins make their home just west of Chicago at the Brookfield Zoo. Jenny Gray . (Good Zoos) Ethical zoos are those that prioritize animal welfare, education, and conservation efforts above profits.They are run by non-profits or the government (at least in the United States, this might not apply to other countries) and have AZA accreditation. Obviously this is a much more expensive zoo to visit than others, but its worth keeping in mind for animal lovers. In addition to housing nearly 500 animal species, the Saint Louis Zoo is recognized worldwide for its innovative approach to animal care and wildlife conservation. That's why it's important to do your research and carefully choose the ones you support. San Diego Zoo in Balboa Park is probably the first one that leaps to mind when thinking about ethical zoos, and with good reason. But, before you plan a trip, it's important to ensure the zoo you visit is as ethical as possible. The Singapore zoo is home to the first free-range orangutan habitat and a Wildlife Healthcare and Research Center which allows a gallery view of animal surgery and treatment areas. The Commission will next meet to review accreditation applications in Spring 2018 in Jacksonville, Florida. The Henry Doorly Zoohelps visitors get to know animals on land, at sea, and in the air, thanks to its various habitats. Giant Pandas African Elephants Polar Bears Cheetahs Spectacled Bears Bison Deer Goat Antelopes Indian Giant Bats Carinthian Sheep Long-eared Hedgehogs Queensland Koalas Southern Pygmy Mongoose They care for their animals as a parent would care for a child. The Denver Zoo has been ranked as one of the best and most ethical zoos in the United States by Travel + Leisure. To see the animals no longer able to roam, pacing in small areas, is too cruel to watch. News, pictures, reviews, and information regarding zoos, aquariums, and wildlife parks from around the world. The 196 million visitors that visit AZA-accredited facilities each year can be certain they are supporting facilities dedicated to superior animal care, meaningful guest education, and impactful wildlife conservation.. Valerie TaylorPhoenixThe writer is the executive director of the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. These are zoos where visitors can feel good about where their money is going, while still enjoying the chance to see wild animals up close, and share that experience with kids. San Diego Zoo was the first to introduce cage-less, open air enclosures that are designed to be as close as possible to the animals natural habitats. 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The Denver Zoo is one of the most ethical zoos in the nation and one of the most popular. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel. "Eagles should not be kept in zoos at any time, but there are monkeys, for example, or squirrels, that do perfectly well, and aquaria, of course, do very well indeed. Twice a year, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) independent Accreditation Commission reviews accreditation applications from the best aquariums, nature centers, science centers and zoos in the world. The largest zoo in Japan, Ueno zoo was opened in 1882. In 2016, Oklahoma City Zoo made headlines when they took in two Asian elephants from Seattles Woodland Park, after that zoo decided to close their elephant exhibit. As well as being kept in isolation as the only elephant at the facility, bullhooks, inadequate vet care, inadequate fencing, and cramped enclosures are consistently reported. Most of these zoos are for-profit and animal welfare is often not the priority. this zoo is home to 1400 animals in carefully created habitats, and is known for its conservation efforts. Preservation Station, Skip: The Greater Wynnewood Exotic Animal Park. Just make sure to take a little time to learn about the zoosimpressive global conservation workwhile youre there. Press J to jump to the feed. The Melbourne Zoo, a nonprofit organization, is another spectacular place to see your favorite animals and even get personal with a few species with itsexclusive animal encounters program. And a portion of every ticket goes toward continuing the program to assist even more species. For example, Philadelphia Zoos trail system and Big Cats Rescue vacation system. This dome is the largest in the world, and was built to house desert habitats for both plants and animals. In the UK, all licensed zoos should conform to an 'ethical review process' which includes ensuring that captive animals are allowed to display natural behaviour. TheSan Diego Zoohas long been considered one of the best zoos in the world. It's not a foolproof guide, but generally it's a good rule of thumb. Through the program, guests can meet and greet with seals, snag before-hours tickets to have the animals all to themselves, and even get a behind-the-scenes look at the elephant habitat. This Anchorage zoo is somewhat unusual, because unlike many of the biggest and best zoos in the country that feature a wide range of habitats for all kinds of animals, the Alaska Zoo focuses purely on arctic and sub-arctic creatures. Animals despise being captives in zoos. . They have invested $73 million into an African Grassland which spans 28 acres. Its past time for transparency with these institutions, and its past time to eliminate zoos from our culture. 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