Are zoos and aquariums unnatural and inhumane?

I must say that I disagree partially with the previous answers. Zoos and aquaria can be exploitative but there is a lot of scientific and veterinary knowledge on the apropriate conditions for keeping animals in captivity and when these are followed the animals do quite well. They usually live longer than their wild counterparts. read more

So, if the accredidation only goes out to the institutions with the most exceptional animal care, and those zoos and aquariums still struggle to maintain the mental health of their animals, one can only imagine what goes on in roadside zoos and places like Seaworld. read more

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) is a prominent trumpeter of these beliefs, arguing that zoos are "pitiful prisons." PETA and those against zoos often reach the stark, candid conclusion that animals in zoos suffer. They support this opinion by asserting a couple different things. read more

The Endangered Species Act covers endangered species that might be in an aquarium and applies to all types of animals, including marine mammals, fish, and invertebrates. Animal cruelty statutes vary by state, and some states may offer some protections to the marine mammals, penguins, fish and other animals in aquariums. read more