Animals fascinate us

Animals fascinate us. We like to observe them and try to understand them. Since ancient times, humans have kept some animals as pets and 

others on display in zoos. Historical records reveal that the ancient   Egyptians kept animals such as giraffes and bears in private zoos.  

Founded in 1752, the Vienna Zoo in Vienna, Austria, is the world's  longest continuously operating zoo.  

 Along with the history of zoos, however, comes the debate of whether they are ethical or not. Animal lovers disagree on whether zoos protect animals or simply imprison them. Some animal experts credit zoos with protecting certain species from extinction. These animals include a few types of frogs and turtles, as well as Amur leopards and golden lion tamarins. As the impact of climate change and habitat loss continues, the role of zoos may be becoming more important in saving animals. Zoos are helping to protect apes and rhinos from poachers and tigers, African elephants, and polar bears from habitat loss.  They also help protect whales and dolphins from hunters, and butterflies and bees from population decline.  

 However, some scientists warn that keeping animals in captivity does more harm than good. Studies show that animals experience stress, anxiety, and other health issues in zoos.  An example is the high rate of heart disease among adult male gorillas held in captivity. This condition is rare in the wild. Some animal experts say that we can learn about and view animals in films and that zoos do more harm than good.  

Use the RACE strategy to answer the following question, using the checklist as you write.  Do you think we should keep animals in zoos? Explain using details from the text.