A Protocol for the Ethical Assessment of Wild Animal-Visitor Interactions (AVIP) Evaluating Animal Welfare, Education, and Conservation Outcomes
Due to the popularity of wild animal–visitor interactions(AVIs),there is a need for an ethical assessment of their impact on animal welfare, education, and conservation. The protocol presented in this study is designed to evaluate such interactions on an integrated level, using a transparent analysis of all the aspects involved, including all the stakeholders and the […]
The captive audience: the educative influence of zoos on their visitors in India
A questionnaire survey was conducted to assess the educative influence of zoo visits on their visitors at three Indian zoos. Although 300 questionnaires were completed at each site, 150 questionnaires each for ‘zoo visitors’ and the ‘general public’, only 863 (96%) were used in the analysis because the others were incomplete. A significantly higher number […]
Zoo theater’s influence on affect and cognition: a case study from the Central Park Zoo in New York
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.20201.abs Zoo theater is used by zoos as a means to influence visitor feelings and knowledge gain about wildlife and environmental themes. This study examined whether and to what extent zoo theater fulfilled these aims by investigating its impact on affect and cognition. The study consisted of an in-depth case study at the Central […]
Influences on visitor behavior at a modern immersive zoo exhibit
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.20220.abs Zoos serve as centers for both research and education. The challenge is to convey messages about their conservation projects while meeting visitor expectations, which often include recreation and entertainment. One way this can be achieved is through the design of immersive exhibits that draw visitors in and engage them with interactive educational elements. […]
Comparative analysis of knowledge gain between interpretive and fact-only presentations at an animal training session: an exploratory study
Abstract 10.1002/zoo.20174.abs Zoos and aquariums have recognized the importance of integrating living collections with personally delivered interpretation. One way for zoos to accomplish this is by conducting public animal training sessions accompanied by personal interpretation. Many institutions offer these types of interactions, but the term “interpretation” is used loosely and without clear definition. This exploratory […]
Wildlife Conservation Education and International Programmes
Wildlife and habitat conservation has become increasingly important in the 21st century. Destruction and loss of habitat, illegal use of wildlife, overexploitation of resources, and lack of conservation awareness, have a negative impact on biodiversity and ecosystems. The unforeseeable expectation by 2050 is that few large marine species will remain and majority of coral reefs, […]
Dolphin Shows and Interaction Programs: Benefits for Conservation Education?
Dolphin shows and dolphin interaction programs are two types of education programs within zoological institutions used to educate visitors about dolphins and the marine environment. The current study examined the short- and long-term effects of these programs on visitors’ conservation-related knowledge, attitude, and behavior. Participants of both dolphin shows and interaction programs demonstrated a significant […]