Zoos And Aquariums Helping Or Hurting - 992 Words

Animals in Zoos Are zoos and aquariums helping or hurting? Do hundreds of thousands of happy onlookers make zoos justifiable? Is it acceptable to keep animals confined for our entertainment? Animals that are confined to zoos or aquariums often exhibit abnormal behavior. This can manifest its self behaviorally or physically. This could be as displayed as begging, self-mutilation, autoerotic stimulation or general sterotypies. Sterotypies are â€Å"are repetitive, invariant, behavior with no obvious goal or function† (Mason 1015-1037). They are generally regarded as an attempt way to improve a sub-optimal environment by using the action or behavior as a coping method (Mason 1015-1037). Bears and elephants may swing or rock, while primates may self bite or display an act called â€Å"floating limb† where they might move a limb unusually, visually track it, then attack it (Mallapur and Choudhury 275-284). Essentially it is the same behavior that a dog displays when it chases its own tail. These behaviors are not always present, but can be more common in males and in animals that are taken from touring exhibitions rather than animals raised in recognized zoos (M allapur and Choudhury 275-284). Stereotypies can be reduced with different enrichment methods, from adding natural elements like dirt or vegetation, concealing food, promoting natural territorial behavior or creating areas of privacy for animals to escape to (Swaisgood and Shepherdson 499-518). Unfortunately, Swaisgood andShow MoreRelatedThe Nature Of Zoos And Aquariums1445 Words   |  6 PagesSociety directly takes advantage of animals through the means of entertainment. Zoos and aquariums have become one of the most popular attractions to see animals in their â€Å"habitats.† According to Stephen Coan, the president and chief executive of Sea Research Foundation, zoos and aquariums were created â€Å"mostly with the intention of helping to revitalize downtowns, coastal areas or waterfront districts† (The Future of Zoos). These attractions resemble a prison to animals because they are isolated fromRead MoreThe Effects Of Jellyfish On The Ecosystem And Life Style Of Others1672 Words   |  7 Pagesbeat them, eat them.† If more people started eating jellyfish it could potentially help create jobs and benefit society, in 2013 Georgia had there first commercial fishing season for jellyfish and it has become a major export for the state. But with helping create new jobs and becoming a popular dish it also raises concern for over fishing. If not studied and watched properly it can harm other ecosystems the jellyfish provides for. With freelance writer Garry Hamilton he uses evidence from marine scientist