Definition of Animal Tourism- It is a form of tourism that is based on interactions between tourists and non- domesticated animals. Wildlife and animal tourism can help to promote education, conservation, and local economic growth. Many animal tourism experiences, however, can endanger an animal’s health and welfare. Unsafe conditions for animal tourism encounters can be hazardous to visitors!
Black Pine Animal Sanctuary is a licensed facility. That is, we oppose any activities or environments that force animals to perform abnormal behaviors. Photo opportunities, tiger cub petting, elephant nail painting, and other activities can be extremely dangerous to both the animals and the people involved.
It’s wonderful to want to interact with animals and learn more about their environment. So let’s talk about how you can do it safely and in a way that benefits both you and the animals with whom you interact.
THE DANGERS OF ANIMAL TOURISM
According to a recent WWF report, “there has been a 68% average decline in birds, amphibians, mammals, fish, and reptiles since 1970.”
This statistic is significant because it causes many animals to end up in zoos, sanctuaries, or parks around the world. As certain animals’ populations decline, they become more popular as tourist attractions.
Animal tourism can be dangerous or harmful for a variety of reasons.
MISTREATMENT OF ANIMALS
This should be our primary concern when considering animal tourism. At any given time, more than 250,000 wild animals are used for tourist entertainment, according to World Animal Protection.
Infant animals are frequently separated from their mothers, subjected to pain to control their behavior, and denied the opportunity to develop social interactions with their own species.
When animals are forced to perform “tricks,” they are frequently chased, physically abused, and isolated, resulting in psychological abuse.
INCREASED POSSIBILITY OF EXTINCTION
When animals are captured for use in wildlife tourism scenarios, they are removed from their natural environment. The most popular animals for tourists to see are frequently endangered species.
These animals can no longer be safely released back into the wild after being captured and trained to perform for audiences and interact with people. They couldn’t make it on their own.
HOW TO ETHICALLY EXPERIENCE WILDLIFE
While animal tourism is risky and frequently unethical, there are still ways to help and interact with wildlife!
Follow these general guidelines when considering any attraction or situation involving wild animals when planning your vacation or travel experience:
- Does this sanctuary or conservation park prioritize animal welfare?
- Are animals forced to perform tricks and displays?
- Is the park breeding animals in captivity for its own shows?
- What happens if the animals refuse to interact with tourists?
- Is animal care provided in an environment that is as close to their natural habitat as possible?
Consider looking elsewhere if these parks and sanctuaries include animal shows, photo opportunities, petting and handling exhibitions or rides.
If you have concerns or questions about how animals are treated and cared for in a sanctuary or conservation park that you want to visit, visiting their website or calling and asking specific questions is a great way to get answers.
ZOOS, SANCTUARIES, AND CONSERVATION PARKS
While all three of these options have unethical versions, many are committed to the ethical and safe treatment of animals in their care.
ZOOS
While “roadside” and non-accredited zoos are examples of unethical animal tourism, many accredited zoos are excellent places to see wildlife. In Northern Indiana, we have several reputable zoos, including the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, the Potawatomi Zoo, and the Indianapolis Zoo.
Check to see if a zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums before going.
ANIMAL SANCTUARIES
The animals who live in sanctuaries like ours have found a forever home. They have either been seized by law enforcement or surrendered to the sanctuary. Our goal is to provide a peaceful environment for the animals in our care.
We do not capture animals from the wild, unlike unethical animal tourism attractions. Instead, we provide care for animals that cannot survive in their natural environments.
CONSERVATION PARKS
If you do decide to visit a wildlife park, do your homework to ensure the animals are well-cared for. We recommend visiting only wildlife parks that are involved in conservation, rather than those that put animals on display for people to perform or pet.
PLAN YOUR VISIT TO BLACK PINE ANIMAL SANCTUARY
We are a Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries-accredited sanctuary for over 100 exotic and wild animals. Over a half-mile of paved trails wind through a wooded area, providing habitat for foxes, tigers, wolves, bobcats, leopards, and bears.
Indoor habitats for reptiles, primates, and birds have also been created. Staff-led tours of the sanctuary are available from May 8 to October (weather permitting), Thursday through Sunday.
Our animals are always treated ethically, and keeping them and visitors safe is our top priority.
