Modern zoo practice requires systematic assessment of whether animals in captivity can meet their behavioral needs, with action plans when deficits are identified.
Zoo animal welfare assessment has evolved from basic health monitoring to comprehensive evaluation of behavioral needs and psychological welfare. Animals with large natural home ranges, complex social structures, or specialized behavioral repertoires are particularly challenging to accommodate in zoo settings. Modern zoos use behavioral monitoring and enrichment to improve welfare, but some species have needs that simply cannot be met in captivity. Honest assessment of which species can thrive and which cannot should guide zoo collection decisions.