The role of modern zoos remains contested: they argue they play a vital role in conservation, while critics question the ethics of keeping wild animals in captivity.
The Born Free Foundation argues the new hospital will not address what it sees as the fundamental ethical issue and questions whether the conservation and research they claim to do justifies zoos’ existence.
“On its 200th anniversary, I think the Zoological Society of London should be focusing all its efforts on protecting wildlife in the wild where it belongs, not keeping wildlife in captivity thousands of miles from where it belongs,” said Mark Jones, head of policy at the charity.
The Born Free Foundation has also raised concerns that opening veterinary procedures to the public risks turning animal care into a spectacle.
ZSL says most of the procedures on display will be routine, such as weight and dental checks. It adds that, wherever possible, it uses what it calls “cooperative care”. According to ZSL, this is where animals are trained to take part in their own healthcare – for example, by staying still or presenting a body part for examination.
ZSL says this is done by rewarding animals with something they enjoy, such as food, helping them remain calm and cooperative, and reducing stress. Galapagos tortoises are trained to step onto scales, for example, the lions and tigers to present their tails so blood tests and skin samples can be taken.
