I have a strange relationship with zoos. I both love and hate them, I love them because I get to see animals from all around the world in one place, and they often do amazing work with environmental issues and animal welfare. I hate them because the animals should be free and wild in their own environment. It is a hard balance between looking after and protecting wildlife and yet giving animals their freedom.
We live in a world where, without the help of zoos and other environmental groups, many species would be extinct due to human greed, destruction and sport. As I have said before the reason I love to travel is to experience the cultures of different peoples around the world. People can be amazing; conversely people can, sadly, be poisonous.
I am very lucky to have such a fantastic example of what a zoo ‘should’ be, in my opinion, right on my doorstep in Chester. The zoo has more recently found fame through TV series like, ‘Our Zoo’ and ‘Secret Life of The Zoo’ but its history stems far further back. Founded in 1931 by George Mottershead it has become one of the biggest zoos in the UK. According to the Chester zoo website it boasts 37,000 animals, from countless Locust in their new ‘Heart of Africa’ experience to Red Pandas and Asian Elephants. My personal favorite at Chester are the Bush Dogs which have recently returned to the zoo. https://www.chesterzoo.org/
I said before, Chester is what a zoo ‘should be’, the reason for that statement is multi-layered. Firstly the sheer size of the enclosures for each of their animals is often very large giving the wildlife freedom to the best of the establishments’ ability. Having been to various zoos around the world I am constantly reminded how good Chester is compared to some other examples.
Another reason I believe the above statement is due to the conservation work that Chester does. I think the name of the establishment should be changed to ‘Chester Conservation Zoo’ personally due to the immense work they do around the world to fight back against the extinction of wildlife, be it due to human or environmental issues.
The reason why I have decided to write this post now is down to the true inspiration I gain from visiting and feel it fits perfectly in my inspiration series. It might not be an individual like Harrer or Attenborough but rather an organisation dedicated to preserving the wildlife that we live alongside on this planet. Another reason, it’s a great excuse to post some of my photos that I have taken on visits!
What ever motivates you in life, whether you agree with climate change, believe in a God, see the good in people or chase financial gain, it is of the most importance, in my opinion, we look after what we have. The world can be a fantastic and wonderful place that all can enjoy, and we must look after it. So to those at Chester Zoo and other zoos who look after and protect the wildlife we have the privilege to share this world with, you inspire me. Thank you.
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