In 2013, Costa Rica announced it will be the first country in the world to shut down all ZOOs and free captive animals. This milestone decision is a result of a new environmental consciousness that questions human superiority over animal species.
Costa Rica is home to 4% of all animal species and is one of the most biodiverse locations on earth, making it an attractive destination for tourists which also helps the economy.
The issue with this new decision is that due to a contract obligation, two of the country’s ZOOs will have to be opened for another 10 years. Nevertheless, activists are fighting to at least convert the ZOOs into cage-free parks.
The day when all captive animals are released will be a day to celebrate freedom and respect
Animals unable to survive on their own and those in need of treatment will still be able to stay in special rescue facilities or wildlife sanctuaries and all ZOOs will be transformed into natural bio-parks.
“Keel-billed Toucan” by Donar Reiskoffer is licensed under CC BY 3.0
Article cover photo:
“Giraffe”
H/T to ewao
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