Conservation Ark
Conservation Ark
Dr Chris West, CEO of Zoos SA including both the Adelaide and Monarto zoos, discussed his ideas of where zoos should be heading and the role that zoos should be playing now and in the future. Dr West explained the changes occurring in the South Australian zoos as they shift their focus to encompass an increasing range of conservation activities, and develop Conservation Ark which is an integrated science and conservation arm of Zoos SA.
Dr West drew our attention to the purpose of zoos in the past when they were for the entertainment of the public, rather than focusing on the welfare of the animals. Many Australian zoos are now shifting their focus from this aspect of entertainment to education and conservation. He stated that it is now more important than ever for zoos to have a conservation role as the world is becoming more and more dominated by people and cities, leaving less open spaces for animals to inhabit. Finally, Dr West reminded us of the significance of Australia's native endangered fauna and how they are often forgotten in the shadow of the Panda.
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