Behind the Scenes - genuine animal protection and species conservation by EAZA member zoos

Zoos around the world are, in theory venues for nature conservation, education, and educational entertainment. However, few people know what really goes on behind the scenes. The European Association of Zoos and Aquariums (EAZA) estimates that 3,000 to 5,000 healthy animals are euthanized in EAZA member zoos every year for “management reasons” – that is, not due to illness, but due to genetic reasons or lack of space. This practice also affects charismatic species such as giraffes, hippos, lions, zebras or various forms of cercopithecus.