How zoos are becoming platforms for behavioral and welfare research, and how this research improves care for zoo animals, wild counterparts, and our understanding of animal minds.
Zoos that invest in rigorous behavioral and welfare research contribute to animal welfare beyond their own populations. Welfare assessment tools developed in zoo settings, understanding of cognitive capacities validated in zoo research, and behavioral management techniques refined through zoo studies benefit both captive and wild animals. The research function of accredited zoos provides a partial justification for maintaining populations of species that cannot otherwise be served in captivity — the knowledge generated compensates in part for the individual welfare limitations of captive settings. The welfare science produced by leading zoo research programs is a genuine public good that advances animal welfare globally.