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From Entertainment to Conservation: Analysis of Zoos and Their Contribution...
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From Entertainment to Conservation: Analysis of Zoos and Their Contribution to Human Societies

A special issue of Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens (ISSN 2673-5636).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2023) | Viewed by 55709

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Courtney Collins

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
The School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences and The Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
Interests: zoo research; animal behavior; zoological education; visitor effects; human–animal interactions; environmental enrichment
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Zoos have largely transitioned from places of entertainment to places of education and conservation, though this may not be the experience that visitors are seeking. Previous research has shown that visitors come to zoos for a variety of reasons, including to socialize, seek entertainment, receive education, and pursue connections with nature and animals. Recent research highlights that zoos are uniquely placed to provide up-close animal encounters and interactive experiences for visitors, which may contribute to the development of pro-conservation actions. Additionally, zoos can effectively educate visitors and advance the conservation and animal welfare movements; however, they must balance this with visitor enjoyment. Additionally, zoos make many ‘behind the scenes’ financial contributions to in situ conservation programs, and can also advance research in a multitude of areas.

The aim of this Special Issue is to explore the contribution that zoos make to society, e.g., promoting positive animal welfare, educating the public about conservation issues, and sponsoring research programs. Manuscripts that explore the function of zoos in society and all of their contributions are welcomed. Research that explores under-studied contributions of zoos, such as visitor wellbeing and in situ native species conservation projects, are encouraged. Potential topics may include, but are not limited to: the visitor experience, animal welfare, conservation, and education. Understanding how zoos contribute to society will augment the current literature surrounding zoo-based research and continue to drive zoos’ missions forward.

Looking forward to your contributions.

Dr. Courtney Collins
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens is an international peer-reviewed open access quarterly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1000 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • zoos
  • society
  • conservation
  • visitor experience
  • welfare

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 961 KiB  
Article
Connecting to Zoos and Aquariums during a COVID-19 Lockdown
by Alaina M. Macri and Deborah L. Wells
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2023, 4(2), 476-489; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg4020035 - 25 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2717
Abstract
One of the main goals of zoos and aquariums (hereafter ‘zoos’) is to connect visitors with animals. Unfortunately, COVID-19 lockdowns resulted in these organizations closing around the globe, making this goal exceedingly difficult. During lockdowns, zoos became very resourceful and found alternative means [...] Read more.
One of the main goals of zoos and aquariums (hereafter ‘zoos’) is to connect visitors with animals. Unfortunately, COVID-19 lockdowns resulted in these organizations closing around the globe, making this goal exceedingly difficult. During lockdowns, zoos became very resourceful and found alternative means to connect people with animals. Additional social media, webcams, and education resources were offered. What is unknown, however, is the extent to which people used these resources and what factors influenced this. This study, therefore, aimed to explore these questions through an online survey. Of the 302 participants who chose to stay connected to a zoo, the majority (82%) did so via social media, and just over half of the sample used webcams (51%). When asked why they stayed connected, 75% indicated that they did so for their own interest in animals, but some (36%) said they enjoyed sharing the animal information with family/friends. Zoo members were more likely to use education resources, and people with zoo work experience were more likely to share animal information. This study illustrates that zoo resources were utilized during lockdown and that demographic variables were associated with how and why people used them. The findings have implications for zoos post-COVID-19 and may be useful for promoting connections and well-being in certain cohorts of society. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Entertainment to Conservation: Analysis of Zoos and Their Contribution to Human Societies)
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14 pages, 3745 KiB  
Article
Record, Recall, Reflect: A Qualitative Examination of Compassion Fatigue in Toronto Zoo Staff
by Krischanda Bemister-Bourret and Merna Tawfik
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2023, 4(2), 413-426; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg4020031 - 9 May 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 9734
Abstract
This study explored Toronto Zoo animal-care professionals’ (ACPs) experiences with compassion fatigue (CF) using a two-phase participatory methodology. In phase one, 11 participants took photographs of their workplace. In phase two, participants told the story behind their photographs through one-on-one interviews. The data [...] Read more.
This study explored Toronto Zoo animal-care professionals’ (ACPs) experiences with compassion fatigue (CF) using a two-phase participatory methodology. In phase one, 11 participants took photographs of their workplace. In phase two, participants told the story behind their photographs through one-on-one interviews. The data were analyzed using NVivo12 software. The participants’ experiences with compassion fatigue stemmed from issues with foundational infrastructure at the Toronto Zoo. Specifically, the participants highlighted issues related to training, staffing, and resource availability and discussed their resultant effect on animal welfare. The participants described the importance of built and sustained trust in their jobs, both with each other and with the non-human animals under their care. While the Zoo’s motto is “One TZ”, the participants noted conflict between the public’s perception of the Toronto Zoo and how the organization cares for its staff. The additive effects of mental and physical exhaustion have led to disengagement from activities that once brought joy and difficulty staying focused while at work and home. The findings will enable the Toronto Zoo to provide comprehensive mental health support for their staff and allow participants, researchers, partner organizations, and the general public to discover more about compassion fatigue in the hope that the lessons learned will last a lifetime. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Entertainment to Conservation: Analysis of Zoos and Their Contribution to Human Societies)
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11 pages, 549 KiB  
Article
By Bits and Pieces: The Contributions of Zoos and Aquariums to Science and Society via Biomaterials
by David M. Powell, Theodore G. Meyer and Mary Duncan
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2023, 4(1), 277-287; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg4010023 - 13 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4551
Abstract
Scientific research has long been recognized as one of the four pillars of the zoo or aquarium mission, alongside recreation, conservation, and education. This study sought to quantify a sample of zoos’ participation in scientific research via the provision of biomaterials from animals [...] Read more.
Scientific research has long been recognized as one of the four pillars of the zoo or aquarium mission, alongside recreation, conservation, and education. This study sought to quantify a sample of zoos’ participation in scientific research via the provision of biomaterials from animals to outside scientists and the associated training of undergraduate and graduate students that resulted from these projects. A convenience sample of zoos provided data on their participation in biomaterials-related projects and a focused analysis of biomaterials-related research facilitated by the Saint Louis Zoo was conducted. In addition, the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ conservation & science database was queried to uncover what research projects AZA members engaged in over the last five years that likely involved biomaterials research and training of students. Results demonstrate that zoos are making significant contributions to science by agreeing to participate in large numbers of biomaterials-related projects across different areas of focus involving a variety of animal species annually, with results applicable to human and non-human animals. Support of such research often involves student thesis projects, thus contributing to the education of future scientists. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Entertainment to Conservation: Analysis of Zoos and Their Contribution to Human Societies)
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12 pages, 315 KiB  
Article
Pakistan Zoo Visitors’ Perceptions toward Zoos and Large Native Carnivores
by Abid Ali, Sehrish Mehmood, Ishtiaq Ullah, Eduardo J. Fernandez, Muhammad Numan Khan, Mujeeb Ullah, Kiran Saleem, Muhammad Osama, Fahad Shahzad and Sarah L. Spooner
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2022, 3(4), 665-676; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg3040049 - 28 Nov 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4156
Abstract
A primary goal of zoos is to educate their visitors about global conservation efforts. Studying visitors’ perceptions and attitudes towards captive and wild endangered species helps target conservation messaging. This is especially important in countries, such as Pakistan, where hunting and human–wildlife conflict [...] Read more.
A primary goal of zoos is to educate their visitors about global conservation efforts. Studying visitors’ perceptions and attitudes towards captive and wild endangered species helps target conservation messaging. This is especially important in countries, such as Pakistan, where hunting and human–wildlife conflict pose the greatest threats to species. While there have been some studies about Pakistan’s rural communities’ perceptions, few studies have examined the perceptions of Pakistan’s zoo visitors. We present data from exit surveys (n = 304) collected at three of the largest zoos in Pakistan (Lahore: an established zoo, Peshawar: a newly built zoo, and Jungle Kingdom: a theme park and zoo). Zoo location was a significant predictor for a range of attitudes, suggesting that the way a zoo presents itself strongly impacts visitor perceptions. Perceptions of learning were influenced by high biodiversity appreciation but a low confidence in knowledge about animals. Support for keeping animals in captivity was most likely when animal welfare was perceived as good and amongst respondents who valued biodiversity. Zoo-goers, regardless of location, demonstrated high levels of interest in animals and environmental concerns. However, the primary visit motivator was spending time with family and friends. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Entertainment to Conservation: Analysis of Zoos and Their Contribution to Human Societies)

Review

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17 pages, 1062 KiB  
Review
The Role of Zoos and Aquariums in Contributing to the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
by Andrew Moss, Matea Vukelic, Susan L. Walker, Charlotte Smith and Sarah L. Spooner
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2023, 4(2), 445-461; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg4020033 - 18 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 8135
Abstract
It is now well established that human-induced species extinctions and habitat degradation are currently occurring at unprecedented rates. To halt and reverse this decline, the international community adopted the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), as part of the Kunming–Montreal Biodiversity Package, in December [...] Read more.
It is now well established that human-induced species extinctions and habitat degradation are currently occurring at unprecedented rates. To halt and reverse this decline, the international community adopted the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), as part of the Kunming–Montreal Biodiversity Package, in December 2022. We clarify what this new framework means for conservation zoos and aquariums in their mission to prevent species extinction by highlighting areas of focus. We explain why it is necessary that conservation zoos and aquariums establish the appropriate mechanisms for contributing towards such a framework to help validate their role in the 21st Century. Conservation zoos and aquariums should be reassured that much of their work already fits within the GBF. However, the current mechanisms for individual zoos and aquariums to directly contribute to the implementation of the GBF mostly rely on close collaboration with individual national governments and/or are only possible at a national level. It is therefore critical that national, regional, and global zoo membership organisations take a leading role in championing the work of their members. Equally, adequately linking the efforts of zoos and aquariums to the national implementation of international instruments, such as the GBF, is imperative to ensure that these organizations’ contributions feed into the understanding we have of global progress towards the implementation of international instruments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Entertainment to Conservation: Analysis of Zoos and Their Contribution to Human Societies)
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17 pages, 6833 KiB  
Review
The Societal Value of the Modern Zoo: A Commentary on How Zoos Can Positively Impact on Human Populations Locally and Globally
by Phillip J. Greenwell, Lisa M. Riley, Ricardo Lemos de Figueiredo, James E. Brereton, Andrew Mooney and Paul E. Rose
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2023, 4(1), 53-69; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg4010006 - 13 Jan 2023
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 23529
Abstract
Modern zoos and aquariums have evolved greatly since the end of the Second World War, to become centres of conservation excellence and scientific institutions for the study of animal behaviour, ecology, husbandry management. Whilst the impact of zoos and aquariums to biodiversity conservation, [...] Read more.
Modern zoos and aquariums have evolved greatly since the end of the Second World War, to become centres of conservation excellence and scientific institutions for the study of animal behaviour, ecology, husbandry management. Whilst the impact of zoos and aquariums to biodiversity conservation, population management and advancement of species care is well documented, their positive impacts on society (including the communities that they are located within) is less well known. The four established aims of the modern zoo—Conservation, Education, Recreation (Engagement) and Research—provide a strong foundation for wider review and critique of the societal value of zoos and aquariums. This article synthesises what such value may be, and how it could be measured, from a systematic review of the literature pertaining to each of these four established aims. It also recommends areas of future scientific inquiry to further study the wider impact of zoos on their local communities and on human populations and behaviour more generally. Including Wellbeing as a fifth aim of the modern zoo would also cement their wider societal value. Further scrutiny of the societal value of the modern zoo enhances the value of the zoo’s living collection and the green spaces that it manages to provide accessibility to biodiversity and nature-centric education essential to long-term, planetary friendly human behaviour change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Entertainment to Conservation: Analysis of Zoos and Their Contribution to Human Societies)
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