ZAA Report Reveals Increase in Public Concern for Captive Animal Welfare

A new ZAA (Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia) report entitled “Unveiling Sector Trends and Insights for Future Planning” has highlighted key trends in public perceptions of zoos and aquariums within Australia and New Zealand, with a particular focus on animal welfare. The research, conducted by Lewers (research agency) and Dynata (panel provider) questioned over one thousand participants about their views on zoos, aquariums, animal welfare, conservation, animal encounters, and community education.

 

The report revealed that a significant portion of those surveyed were increasingly concerned about animal welfare in these institutions, with 74% in Australia and 69% in New Zealand expressing at least some concern. There is a growing awareness of the ethical implications of animal captivity, with many questioning the quality of life and psychological well-being of animals. The report suggests that communication regarding zoos’ animal welfare standards needs to be enhanced.

 

Key findings of the report:

• Increasing Concern: Over time, concern for animal welfare in zoos and aquariums has risen. By 2024, 74% of Australians and 69% of New Zealanders expressed concern, an increase from previous years.

 

• Captivity Issues: A significant portion of the community feels uneasy about animals being kept in captivity, with concerns about unnatural environments, small enclosures, and the psychological impact on animals.

 

• Animal Encounters: While many enjoy animal encounters, 69% of Australians and 66% of New Zealanders surveyed worry about the welfare of animals involved in these activities, particularly regarding stress and unnatural behaviours.

 

• Accreditation Awareness: Awareness of zoos and aquariums being animal welfare accredited is low (31% in Australia, 22% in New Zealand), but knowing about accreditation increases comfort in visiting these institutions.

 

• Communication Needs: The report emphasises the need for better communication regarding zoos’ and aquariums’ commitment to animal welfare, conservation efforts, and accreditation standards to address public concerns.

 

The growing public awareness of animal welfare matters within captive facilities underscores the urgent need for action to ensure that all animals have the opportunity to thrive.

 

You can view and download the full 2024 ZAA report online here.

 

Wild Welfare is committed to advocating for improved conditions and care for animals in captivity. This report highlights that the public continues to expand their knowledge and understanding of what good animal welfare should look like and the importance of positive welfare experiences for animals in captivity. All captive wild animal facilities, not just zoos and aquariums, must continue to work towards more ethical and progressive practices, such as providing opportunities for animals to exhibit natural behaviours, live in an appropriate environment which caters for their physical and psychological needs, have access to a nutritious diet, and be provided with good health care.

 

Wild Welfare has been working in collaboration with the zoo and aquarium community since 2012, with both individual facilities and zoological associations around the world. “Our work with the associations has seen the development and implementation of animal welfare standards and accreditation processes that have been instrumental in improving animal welfare around the globe” explained Wild Welfare Director, Simon Marsh. “By developing a systematic way of evaluating an entire zoo or aquarium, we have not only been able to raise the awareness of animal welfare matters, but also create a positive and collaborative process which identifies where improvements in animal care and welfare can be made”, affirmed Simon. When a facility meets the required standard of animal care and welfare, they can become an accredited member of that association, giving the public a greater degree of confidence that the animals in that establishment are able to experience and access positive welfare opportunities throughout their lives. 

 

By supporting Wild Welfare, your donations can assist in the continued development of vital resources and training programmes to upskill animal care staff around the world. Your kind support enables Wild Welfare to build capacity and develop the sustainable change that we all want to see; a world where every captive animal is able to thrive and live a good life.

Please help to support Wild Welfare’s critical work at https://wildwelfare.org/get-involved-make-a-donation/

-ENDS-

 

Notes to Editors

For more information or interview requests please contact Wild Welfare on communications@wildwelfare.org

Wild Welfare is a global organisation committed to improving animal welfare for captive wild animals. By uniting the world’s leading zoos, zoo associations and animal welfare organisations, we build trusting partnerships that help provide long-term solutions to critical wild animal welfare issues.

Our vision is to end the suffering of captive wild animals around the world and ensure full and sustainable protection is given to all animals in human care. Find out more at wildwelfare.org. Registered charity in England (no.1165941).