Zoos and Animal Health The idea of keeping any living creature behind barriers is difficult for some people to accept. It’s true that zoo animals receive medical care. But zoo supporters claim that animals in captivity are even healthier than those in the wild. Let’s consider a few problems with this argument. First, animals like polar bears live in naturally cold climates. However, there are polar bear exhibits in warm and even tropical areas worldwide. It is very stressful for animals to adapt to different temperatures and this affects their health. Next, no matter how hard they try, zoos cannot provide the living space that animals need. Studies show that small enclosures prevent animals from getting enough exercise and carrying out normal routines. Lack of space even lowers infant survival rates. Zoo diets may not contain the nutrients animals get in the wild, causing disease and weight problems. Finally, the life span of some species, such as elephants, is shorter in zoos. What is the author’s point in “Zoos and Animal Health”?

Forcing animals to live in enclosures is unacceptable to many people.

Animals in the wild eat more nutritious foods than animals that live in zoos.

Animals in zoos experience fewer health problems than those that live in the wild.

It is wrong to say that animals kept in captivity are healthier than animals that live in the wild.