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Argumentative Essay Zoos

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Zoos are establishments where different species of wild animals are kept in captivity, generally to be shown to the public for educational and recreational purposes. Also, zoos are a place where endangered animals are preserved to try to reproduce their species. Although Most people understand that confining a beautiful wild animal in a cage that is a fraction of the size of its natural habitat is wrong, the question whether zoos should be legal or banned has become a controversy nowadays. In this essay, I will share the pro/con perspectives from veterinarian and researcher, Dr. Clement Lanthier and the neuroscientist and expert in animal behavior and intelligence, Dr. Lori Marino regarding the importance of zoos and if it's worthwhile to continue legalizing zoos in the nation or if they should be banned.
In his article “Zoos Not an Enemy to Animals,” Dr. Clement Lanthier argues that zoos and aquariums are meant to protect the welfare of the animals and prevent the species extinction. Currently, there are at least 248 species in the nation listed as endangered, “our nation is part of the global mass extinction that has seen 60 per cent of vertebrates disappear over the past 40 years. In that same period, 80 per cent of our ocean fish biomass has vanished due to commercial fisheries.” (Lanthier). Zoos and aquariums help educate people to understand how crucial it is to protect the wildlife, which is not only good for future generations, but also teaches them what the needs of animals are and the importance of their cultivation. Lanthier reiterates that the rescue programs that zoos and aquariums offer help to preserve the endangered species, so that they could be reintroduced back into their natural habitats in the near future. Lastly, zoos are crucial for scientists to carry out studies on ecosystems, supporting conservation projects and ensuring the acquisition of new techniques and medicines to take care of the animals.
On the other hand, Dr. Lori Marino wrote an article “Orca Babies Need Their Families, Not Concrete Tanks and Humans” where she offers another view of why zoos and aquariums should be banned. Marino mentions a three-month baby Orca who died under the care of SeaWorld Parks Industry which left

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