Traditionally, zoos are considered a sanctuary for endangered species, yet some of them are notorious for being cruel to animals. Do the advantages of zoos outweigh its disadvantages?

Zoos

are conventionally viewed as a sanctuary for wild

animals

, providing a safe environment for them to live and breed.

However

, some of them are criticized for their

treatment

of

animals

, with reports of mistreatment and neglect.

This

phenomenon has both sides which are going to be presented in

this

essay, and from my perspective, its benefits are much more significant than its drawbacks. It is detachable that keeping

animals

in captivity might have a few downsides.

First,

the welfare of

animals

can be affected. To be more specific, some

zoos

keep vulnerable species in small enclosures and subject them to cruel

treatment

,

such

as using physical restraints, drugging

animals

to keep them sedated or depriving them of food and water.

This

can lead to a range of physical and behavioural problems, especially adverse reactions when they are domesticated to be more friendly with humans.

Furthermore

, some

zoos

often prioritize entertainment over education, particularly when it comes to exhibits and attractions.

That is

to say that some

zoos

may feature

animals

in unnatural settings in order to create a more dramatic or exciting experience for visitors rather than exhibitions and educational presentations. Despite the aforementioned arguments, my position remains firm that the upsides of

zoos

should be emphasized. The most striking one is its crucial role in conservation effects.

In other words

, though the poor

treatment

of

animals

occurs in a few

zoos

, almost all of the

zoos

provide a safe sanctuary and good animal welfare (feeding, housing and health).

Hence

,

zoos

easily offer opportunities for scientific research and breeding programs that help to preserve and protect these species from extinction.

Moreover

,

zoos

can serve as a valuable educational resource for the public, particularly for children.

Zoos

often offer guided tours and interactive exhibits that can help people understand the importance of biodiversity and conservation.

As a result

,

zoos

can fulfil their potential to inspire and motivate visitors to become more engaged and active in protecting the inhabitants. In conclusion,

although

I admit that there are some negatives related to

zoos

such

as bad welfare and prioritizing entertainment , I still believe that its positives including conservation effects and awareness raising are certainly greater.

Therefore

, the government, in cooperation with local authorities, needs to enact related laws and regulations to mitigate the inhumane

treatment

of

animals

and other adverse impacts.