Global Network, Issue 12 2009

Rob Laidlaw has produced a thought-provoking book, recommended for ages 8 - 12, that should stimulate his readers to think critically about the purpose of zoos and question the value of keeping wild animals in captivity.

The book seeks to educate readers about the natural behaviour of different species; while it is likely to promote compassion for their welfare, Laidlaw provides a fair and balanced assessment of different captive situations, allowing the reader to be the judge. He questions everything from the educational value of zoos, cage size and design, to the purpose of environmental enrichment programmes.

The author is well respected within the animal protection movement as one of the leading experts on the welfare of captive wildlife; his academic experience on the subject has been greatly enhanced by his observations at more than a thousand zoos around the world. An advocate for the welfare of animals he has studied and researched, Laidlaw co-founded Zoocheck Canada in 1984. Wild Animals in Captivity explains why he felt motivated to take up the cause of captive animals and should inspire every reader to join in his crusade.

This book explores the natural lives of animals and contrasts this with what they are forced to endure in zoos around the world. Laidlaw enriches our understanding of the physical and behavioural needs of different species, from lizards to gorillas, and explains how these needs are compromised in captivity. It is heartbreaking to read about the impact that captivity has on some animals; he has observed far too many animals pacing back and forth neurotically in their cages and showing other signs of boredom and frustration.

Laidlaw describes the diverse range of captive environments that animals are kept in, from ramshackle barren cages at the roadside to more expensive - but still deficient - cages at zoos accredited by regional zoo associations. He also summarises the evolution of the zoo, letting the reader understand that there is always room for improvement.

While the author takes the position that wild animals should remain in the wild, he advocates for our responsibility to improve the welfare of animals currently held in captivity. This book will undoubtedly persuade many people to help fulfill this moral obligation and invoke the readers' empathy and respect for all captive wildlife.

Although Wild Animals in Captivity is intended for a young audience, it is a compelling read for adults too. It will be most valuable to teachers and parents who are questioning whether to take children to a zoo. Whether or not they decide to go in the end, the book will inform their decision and perhaps change the zoo experience they give a child.

This is a must read. Rob Laidlaw's next book, On Parade, The World of Performing Animals,is due to be published in late 2009. Wild Animals in Captivity has been nominated for Canada's Silver Birch Award and added to the School Libary Journal Best Books 2008 list.

Review by Melissa Tkachyk, Programmes Officer, World Society for the Protection of Animals.