Zooamore originally started out as an online zoo show that I produced while a student at The Ohio State University. However, I took it a step farther to incorporate an instagram account, as well as a blog to reach out to fellow Zooamores.
So what is a Zooamore? We are the biggest zoo lovers across the world! During the school year, I spent almost every weekend at the Columbus Zoo (approximately five hours each weekend, sometimes more). I love the Zoo, and I hope to work in one someday to share my passion for animal welfare and conservation.
You might argue that I can’t be passionate about these issues if I hope to work in a zoo, but you would be wrong. The Zoo gives the public a chance to learn about animals, and the reasons for them becoming endangered. PETA argues that this cannot be achieved because people look at each animal for approximately 8 seconds. If this is true, then I am proud to say I am NOT one of these people. I will gladly admit that I once admired the Amur Tigers for 3 hours, and Lions for 2.5 hours in one sitting. When I go to the Zoo, I want to learn, and I desire to observe these animals.
The Columbus Zoo is my favorite zoo because I appreciate the efforts they go through to make sure the animals are taken care of and their environment is enriching. The larger mammals have big exhibits (versus cages). They have a great deal of space to roam, and different ways to entertain themselves. The Keepers are responsible for this, and I hope to be one! It breaks my heart to see pictures of Zoos where animals are in boring cages without enrichment. I think this is why some people assume that Zoos are evil. I don’t think Zoological Parks can be seen as black or white. Not all Zoos are bad, but not all are good either. The animals at the Columbus Zoo always seem happy and usually can be seen running around in their exhibit.
I’m studying abroad in South Africa this summer, studying Exotic Animal, Behavior, Welfare, and Conservation. I will be observing animals in their natural habitat. You can be certain I will write a post explaining the differences in behavior between Zoo animals versus wild animals. Stay tuned! Until then, go to your local zoo! But make sure to read the information provided, and take the time to appreciate each animal. Use #zooamore on your zoo pictures on instagram! Until then, my fellow Zooamores.
Stephanie Endlish, May 16, 2016
Zooamore 