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6/07/2016 9:00 am  #1


I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

Personally, I'm not a big fan of zoos in general, but this latest incident should focus attention on that very topic:

As research continues to reveal the breadth of our genetic, emotional and cognitive kinship with the world’s four great apes — gorillas, chimpanzees, bonobos and orangutans — many primatologists admit to feeling frankly uncomfortable at the sight of a captive ape on display, no matter how luxe or “natural” the zoo exhibit may be.

“When I visit zoos, I have to turn off my feelings and just tell myself that I am at a museum admiring nature’s masterpieces,” said the primatologist Sarah Blaffer Hrdy, professor emerita at the University of California, Davis. “Otherwise, I can’t really justify keeping great apes in cages.”

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/07/science/gorilla-shot-harambe-zoo.html?_r=0



 

Last edited by Just Fred (6/07/2016 9:03 am)

 

6/07/2016 9:42 am  #2


Re: I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

I am rather conflicted about zoos.
But, we just have to have a way for people to learn about, and have empathy for, all of God's creatures.

Last edited by Goose (6/07/2016 9:48 am)


We live in a time in which decent and otherwise sensible people are surrendering too easily to the hectoring of morons or extremists. 
 

6/07/2016 9:49 am  #3


Re: I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

I'm just wondering how much can be learned by looking at an animal in a cage, no matter how 'natural' that enclosure might be.

     Thread Starter
 

6/07/2016 9:55 am  #4


Re: I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

A lot depends upon the facility, and of course, the visitor.

The San Diego zoo, and the Monterey Aquarium are two examples of the best. The exhibits are planned with the health and dignity of the animals in mind. And there is a wealth of information about the animal from habitat, behavior, biology and endngered status right at the exhibit. The Birch Aquarium in La Jolla is also wonderful.

Of course, you can lead a visitor to water,,,,,,,,

Last edited by Goose (6/07/2016 9:57 am)


We live in a time in which decent and otherwise sensible people are surrendering too easily to the hectoring of morons or extremists. 
 

6/07/2016 10:39 am  #5


Re: I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

With communication as broad and available as it is I'm wondering if zoos are even relevant anymore.

Anyone who wants to learn about an animal can find information in a matter of minutes.

Honestly can't see how seeing said animal in a cage will enhance the experience.


If you make yourself miserable trying to make others happy that means everyone is miserable.

-Me again

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6/07/2016 12:11 pm  #6


Re: I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

With communication as broad and available as it is I'm wondering if zoos are even relevant anymore.  -  CT

I agree, CT.  Since the inception of zoos, so much has happened with technology and communication, that so much more can be learned via National Geographic magazine, tv programs, the PBS series 'Planet Earth', 'The Big Blue Marble', The Richard Attenbourgh programs, the Jane Goodall series, etc. that I believe it's time to stick a fork in zoos ............... starting with the 'primate enclosures'. 

 

Last edited by Just Fred (6/07/2016 12:12 pm)

     Thread Starter
 

6/07/2016 2:04 pm  #7


Re: I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

The internet is wonderful.
But, sometimes you have to be there.
Watching some kids running around a tide pool exhibit. Having a brief interaction with a biologist while the actual animal is at arms length, holding a starfish, Watching an animal watch you,,,etc.
No, I wouldn't want to see it all end. But, maybe primate enclosures should go.

Last edited by Goose (6/07/2016 2:04 pm)


We live in a time in which decent and otherwise sensible people are surrendering too easily to the hectoring of morons or extremists. 
 

6/07/2016 2:29 pm  #8


Re: I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

Perhaps we should consider the needs, ecological requirements, and necessary social dynamics of all vertebrates vs invertebrates?  I think it's time we listen to zoologists and primatologists that know alot more than we do.

     Thread Starter
 

6/07/2016 3:25 pm  #9


Re: I'm Glad Some People are Finally Addressing This

I don't think that the scientific community is unanimous on this. From the literature search I did, they seem rather as conflicted as do we.


We live in a time in which decent and otherwise sensible people are surrendering too easily to the hectoring of morons or extremists. 
 

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