Animal Politics: Zoos Fail Again to Protect Animals

Another Heartbreaking Zoo Death

As a longtime animal welfare advocate and a proponent of compassionate conservation, I am deeply saddened by the passing of yet another zoo captive. This time, it’s Little Joe, a beloved western lowland gorilla at the St. Louis Zoo. His untimely death at just 26 years of age is a tragic reminder that the modern zoo model has failed both the animals in its care and the public's trust. In the wild, this species can live 30-40 years; but they have been known to live up to 50 years in captivity.  If you can call that living.

Little Joe's story is all too familiar. According to the zoo, Little Joe had been under treatment for heart disease prior to his death. He died from a heart attack. Tragically, Little Joe's passing comes just three years after he received COVID-19 vaccinations at the zoo - a well-intentioned but ultimately misguided effort to protect him from a virus. COVID-19 has posed a concern for captive animal populations, prompting zoos and wildlife facilities to take preventive measures such as vaccinations.

While the vaccines were meant to safeguard Little Joe's health, the long-term effects on animals remain poorly understood. Studies have shown the risk of myocarditis, or heart inflammation, pose greater dangers for vulnerable captive species like gorillas. Moreover, the vaccines may not have been as effective in preventing severe COVID-19 outcomes in animals as initially hoped. Where have we heard that before?

Zoos should carefully weigh the risks and benefits of interventions, prioritizing the unique needs and welfare of each individual animal. Captive animals like Little Joe face heightened health challenges due to the stresses of confinement, potentially increasing their susceptibility to vaccine side effects.

While the COVID-19 vaccine may have played a role in his death, his advanced age and pre-existing heart condition were likely significant factors. Older captive gorillas, like Little Joe, are at a higher risk of heart disease due to unnatural living conditions and lack of exercise, which profoundly affect their physical and psychological well-being. His death underscores the limitations of the zoo's ability to safeguard animal health.

The justifications zoos offer for their existence - that they educate the public and contribute to conservation - ring hollow in the face of such preventable suffering. In an age where virtual reality, nature documentaries, and online resources provide ample opportunities to learn about and appreciate wildlife, the educational value of confining animals behind bars for a lifetime of suffering is highly questionable. 

And while some zoos may claim to participate in conservation efforts, the reality is that captive breeding programs have largely failed to successfully reintroduce animals to the wild. More often than not, zoos serve only to perpetuate the cycle of exploitation, with animals born in captivity being shuffled from zoo to zoo.

The tragic death of Little Joe, like the recent incident involving the ostrich Karen at the Topeka Zoo, should be another wake-up call. It is time to acknowledge that the zoo model is fundamentally flawed, prioritizing human entertainment over the well-being of the animals. As a society, we must have the courage to close these institutions and find more ethical, compassionate ways to connect people with the wonders of the natural world.

The lives of these animals, and our own humanity, depend on it.

If you want to do more:

Here are ways you can make a difference:

1. Support Legislation: Advocate for stronger animal welfare laws and regulations that prioritize the well-being of animals in captivity and in the wild. Contact your representatives and urge them to support measures that promote ethical treatment of animals.

2. Volunteer with Conservation Organizations: Get involved with local or international conservation groups working to protect wildlife and their habitats. Whether it's hands-on work in the field or behind-the-scenes support, your time and skills can contribute to meaningful conservation efforts.

3. Make Conscious Consumer Choices: Choose to support businesses and products that are committed to ethical treatment of animals and sustainable practices. Avoid supporting attractions or industries that exploit animals for entertainment or profit.

4. Educate Others: Spread awareness about the issues facing wildlife and the importance of ethical conservation practices. Share information with your friends, family, and community through social media, events, or educational outreach programs.

Together, we can create a future where wildlife is valued and protected with the dignity and respect they deserve. Your actions today can shape a better tomorrow for animals and our planet.

For more on this topic: Zoos Fail Animals and Betray Public Trust

Ed Boks is a former Executive Director of the New York City, Los Angeles, and Maricopa County Animal Care & Control Departments. He is available for consultations. His work has been published in the LA Times, New York Times, Newsweek, Real Clear Policy, Sentient Media, and now on Animal Politics with Ed Boks.