Zoo vs Sanctuary
The distinction between a zoo and a sanctuary is quite significant, even though both are places where animals and birds reside. These two places exhibit differences in terms of the surrounding environment, living conditions, and more. Both are considered protective havens for birds and animals, but this assumption is not accepted by animal rights activists. The opinions and differences between a zoo and a sanctuary are explored in this article.
What is a Zoo?
A zoo is an artificial habitat created for animals and birds, where they are held captive. It is a place designed by humans with the intention of keeping birds and animals for the purpose of being observed by visitors and tourists. A zoo is open to the general public within specific visiting hours. Animals and birds in a zoo are visited by people and other onlookers without any restrictions.
A zoo is often a commercial project that promotes tourist activity in a state or country. Animals and birds are bred with the goal of increasing the revenue of the state or country. However, it is essential to note that only a zoo operating according to laws will breed animals properly and take care of their well-being. Some zoos do not prioritize animal welfare and only focus on profits. Animal rights activists generally oppose zoos, whether they abide by the law or not, as zoos sometimes capture animals from the wild and confine them in cages without freedom. Some zoos also breed animals to attract the public, which can result in overcrowded cages.
What is a Sanctuary?
A sanctuary is a natural habitat for animals and birds who choose to live there. In a sanctuary, animals and birds are not held captive but are free to roam and fly as they please. This is because a sanctuary is a chosen living spot for animals and birds. In a sanctuary, animals and birds are not bred or cared for by humans; they take care of themselves and their own living.
A sanctuary is not open to the public for visitation. Sometimes it is open with certain limitations. This means that people can visit a zoo according to their preference but cannot freely visit a sanctuary when they desire. Additionally, visitors cannot roam freely in a sanctuary and must follow certain restrictions if they decide to visit. This is because animals and birds move about freely in a sanctuary, and unrestricted visitation is not advisable. Animal rights activists prefer sanctuaries as they value animal freedom, do not capture animals from the wild, and prioritize animal health without expecting any profit in the process.
What is the difference between Zoo and Sanctuary?
• A primary difference between a zoo and a sanctuary is that a zoo is created as an artificial habitat for animals and birds, while a sanctuary is a natural habitat that animals and birds choose to inhabit.
• Animals and birds in a zoo are held captive, while animals and birds in a sanctuary are free to roam and fly as they please.
• In a zoo, visitors can roam as they wish, while in a sanctuary, they must follow certain restrictions as animals are allowed to be free.
• In a zoo, animals have to be taken care of as they live in cages, whereas, in a sanctuary, people do not need to take care of animals, as they are free.
• Animal rights activists prefer sanctuaries to zoos as sanctuaries value animal freedom.
Key Takeaways:
- A zoo is an artificial, man-made habitat where animals are held captive, while a sanctuary is a natural habitat chosen by animals and birds, who are free to roam.
- Visitors can freely roam a zoo, but they must follow certain restrictions in a sanctuary to respect the animals’ freedom.
- Animal rights activists generally prefer sanctuaries over zoos due to the value placed on animal freedom and well-being.
