If it weren't for some animals being taken into captivity they would be extinct. Consider the chinchilla for instance. There are less than 1,000 in the wild because they are killed for their soft fur.

Some tigers would be extinct if it were not for zoos. I have several captive breeding programs at my house for several exotic species that are deteriorating in the wild. Some of those are mycavies, who are being hunted in the wild because they are thought of as pests. I do not consider these animals my pets, they are simply managed animals in a managed environment so that their species does not dissapear. So when I mention all my pets, know there are tons more animals at my house that just aren't listed.

Some zoos are very sad. But I enjoy the wilderness type such as wild animal parks where each animal has several acres of land to roam around. Here in Oregon we have a drive through zoo which is fantastic. The animals are very well taken care of and have several acres to roam. They breed Cheetahs to up their numbers, as they are declining in the wild do to poaching.

I will be getting my USDI permit next year to begin breeding the threatened Serval.