4.2.1 Definition of a Zoo

 

The word Zoo is derived from the Greek Zoion meaning Living Creature. In its simplest form a Zoo would therefore mean a place where there is a collection of living creatures. Creatures in this sense would mean animals. However, some Zoos have become a place where there is a collection of living things. Some Zoos have thus become places of both plant and animal collections.

 

Webster dictionary suggests that a zoo is "a place where different animals are kept for people to look at".

back to top

4.2.2 Types of Zoos

There are at least three very interesting books on zoos. Nyhuis (1990) [ The Zoo Book: A Guide to America's best] and Marshall (1994) [ Zoo: Profile of 102 Zoos, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks in the United States] are quite factual while Hann (1990) [ Animal Gardens or Zoos around the World] is very useful and entertaining reading.

 

The following is a simple list of the different types of zoos based on exhibit method or function.

• Ancient Zoos [ Collections of animals for viewing and entertainment ]
• Caged Zoos [ Slide: Lincoln Park Zoo, Historical Cage Exhibit ]
• Cageless/Barless Zoos [ Modern Zoo: The Miami Metro Zoo could be considered the first true cageless zoo in the World]
• Children Zoos / Petting Zoos
• Farm in the Zoo
• Travelling Zoo
• Aquatic Zoos [ The Shedd Aquarium, Seaworld ]
• Wildlife Reserves / Safari Parks        
• Wild Animal Parks
• Conservation Parks
• Frozen Zoos [ The San Diego Zoo: Centre for Reproduction in Endangered Species (CRES), this involves the care and management of frozen sperm and embryos ]

back to top