Swiss Zoos: Three Quarters of German-Speaking Swiss Support Them
In Switzerland and other European countries, a societal debate about animal husbandry in general has been underway for some time, which naturally also affects the member institutions of the Association of Zoological Gardens. The media have taken up the topic and frequently report on the supposed advantages and disadvantages of zoos. In this context, the central question in the survey commissioned by the VdZ in German-speaking Switzerland was clear: “Do you support the existence of zoos in Switzerland — or are you opposed to zoos?” The result is unambiguous: three out of four Swiss people support zoos in this country.
74 percent of Swiss men and women are in favour of zoos. This was the finding of a study by the opinion research institute Forsa. The most frequently cited reasons are the protection and conservation of species, the transfer of knowledge, and the importance of zoos for children.
A representative survey conducted in November 2019 by the renowned German opinion research institute Forsa in Germany, Austria, and German-speaking Switzerland found that 74 percent of Swiss respondents support the existence of zoos and wildlife parks Only 14 percent are opposed to zoos. Accordingly, 70 percent of respondents expressed support for financial backing of zoos by public authorities.
Biodiversity and Species Conservation as the Most Important Responsibilities
This result of a survey carried out before the COVID-19 crisis is particularly relevant given that zoos — unlike zoological museums — received no financial support whatsoever from the Federal Council for the financial damage caused by the lockdown.
The survey also reveals that the protection of biodiversity the keeping and breeding of endangered animal species in zoos is considered important or very important by 87 percent of Swiss respondents. Other zoo responsibilities, such as commitment to sustainability and environmental protection, education of broad sections of the population, and research into animal species, are also rated as important by a large majority of respondents. This shows that zoos are perceived both as educational institutions, out-of-school learning venues, cultural facilities, recreational spaces, and as centres of expertise for animal, species, and nature conservation.
Professional expertise in animal husbandry
A large majority of 80 percent of respondents credit zoos with professional expertise in animal husbandry. Just as many are of the opinion that zoos handle their animals responsibly. In addition, 61 percent say that it is acceptable for wild animals to be kept in zoos. The majority of respondents do not believe that digital media and documentary films can replace a visit to the zoo. Only 33 percent of respondents would consider a good wildlife film an equivalent substitute. 60 percent are of the opinion that a virtual reality zoo would not offer the same experience as a visit to a real zoo.
The PDFs below contain the results of the Forsa study for German-speaking Switzerland as well as a summary fact sheet.
