Zoos vary enormously in quality. Modern evidence-based zoos contribute to conservation and education, but welfare standards remain highly variable globally.
Zoo animal welfare exists on a vast spectrum from excellent to deplorable. WAZA-accredited zoos with spacious, complex enclosures and strong enrichment programs provide much better welfare than roadside attractions and private collections. Stereotypic behaviours - repetitive pacing, swaying, or bar-biting - indicate chronic stress and are a welfare red flag. Species with large natural home ranges (large carnivores, elephants, cetaceans) are particularly poorly suited to captivity. Conservation credentials should not be accepted uncritically as justification for poor welfare.