In the world of animal tourism, there is an ongoing debate on whether zoos are ethical. Wild animals would rather be in the wild right? However, there are two main types of zoos in the world: AZA-accredited zoos and roadside zoo attractions. The difference between these two different types of attractions will definitely make you rethink where you visit, and whether they are ethical or not.
What is the AZA?
First things first, what exactly is the AZA? The AZA, or Association of Zoos and Aquariums, is an international organization that uses the latest scientific research on wildlife conservation, behavior, and husbandry to make sure all accredited zoos are following strict guidelines for the animals’ health.
Basically, they rock.
The AZA employs dozens of biologists, animal behaviorists, and veterinarians to research and implement the best animal care worldwide. It’s pretty difficult to get an AZA accreditation, and for good reason.
What are AZA Zoos?
An AZA-accredited zoo must pass an expert inspection from members of the AZA board. During this evaluation, the inspectors check for the following:
- Proper living environment and enrichment
- Good social groupings
- Animal health and nutrition
- The zoo’s veterinary program
- Involvement in conservation and research
- Zoo education programs
- Zoo safety and security
- Guest services and facilities
- Quality of the zoo’s staff
The application alone is extensive and can take up to 6 months to complete, and once accredited, they must have regular inspections performed. Rest assured, AZA zoos are highly qualified and are the best for animal welfare, conservation efforts, and education programs. Most (if not all) AZA zoos are ethical places to visit. There will always be outliers, but these can be reported and promptly taken care of by the organization. The breeding efforts and conservation projects performed by AZA zoos around the world have saved dozens of animals from extinction and rebuilt wild areas to protect the vulnerable.
A conservation project at Mesker Park Zoo for Hellbender salamanders
What are Roadside Zoos?
Other zoo-like destinations can be vastly different, even if they call themselves a zoo. Many of these roadside attractions pose as rescues, but use harmful activities to earn money, rarely participate in conservation programs, and offer little education for their guests. There are rarely qualified veterinarians or researchers on staff, and animal health and wellness suffer as a result.
Most roadside zoos should be avoided at all costs, and even reported if you witness something unethical occurring there. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to shut these places down. The best thing you can do is to keep your money from going into their pockets.
Questions to Ask Before Visiting a Zoo
Some locations can be difficult to determine whether you should visit. I always ask myself these questions before visiting a new zoo or animal attraction:
- Are they AZA-accredited? If not, are they trying to be?
- Do they promote harmful animal interactions? (Elephant riding, holding wildlife, unmonitored feeding)
- Do they participate in conservation efforts and/or research? (You can often find this out on their website)
This method is definitely not foolproof, but it has helped me avoid giving my money to unethical institutions. Remember: just because something is called a “zoo” doesn’t mean it’s AZA-accredited, and “rescues” aren’t always ethical either.
An ethical wildlife rehabilitation center I volunteered at in the Amazon Jungle, Ecuador
It’s a difficult line to walk wanting to be around wildlife and support conservation while avoiding unethical tourist traps. If you mistakenly visit a destination that doesn’t feel quite right, don’t beat yourself up. Simply warn other travelers in your hotel/hostel or post an honest review online. This will help others steer clear. There are far fewer AZA-accredited zoos outside of the United States, so following these guidelines and asking yourself these questions will definitely help while traveling abroad.
I hope this article helps and sheds some light on the good AZA zoos provide! You can look up a full list of AZA zoos and aquariums here, and look into current conservation and breeding efforts!
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Such a helpful post! I love animals so much but definitely when traveling need to be mindful of what’s ethical. There are obvious ones in my mind like how I’d never ride an elephant but there’s more subtle things like, here feed this monkey that’s totally fine. Got to make sure it’s a place that treats their animals well and that there’s a purpose beyond some set up for tourists.
I’m definitely going to be a frequent visitor to your site to learn all I can! I love what you’re doing.❤️
Thank you so much!