Choosing a zoo to visit

Zoos have been around for hundreds of years in one form or other. The first modern-day zoos were developed in the early part of the 19th century, when animal welfare was not a priority. But these days, zoos are much kinder places with the focus being on trying to create the most natural habitat for animals.

As well as providing us with entertainment, zoos also aim to teach us about different animals and help to protect endangered species.

By paying to visit zoos, you can help make a difference to animals by providing funds to continue conservation work and maintain species.

So which kind is for you?

Traditional zoos
These are zoos that house animals in enclosures for the public to view. Most have a variety of different animals, from large mammals such as lions and tigers to smaller species like snakes and birds.

Wildlife parks
Wildlife parks tend to be spread over a larger area than a traditional zoo, with animals roaming freely. You generally drive your car around the park or take a train through it. As with a zoo, there will be a large variety of animals to view, including larger ones such as rhinos, elephants and giraffes.

Children's zoos
Children's zoos, or petting zoos as they are sometimes called, are interactive venues. Often, children will be allowed to help feed baby animals such as lambs or pigs. They can also pet ponies, cuddle rabbits or go into an enclosure with some of the zoo's small animals.

Wildlife sanctuaries or trusts
These dedicated places are less of a zoo and more a nursing home for sick animals. Typical residents are likely to include hedgehogs, birds, badgers, deer and other animals that have been injured or are unable to look after themselves.

Animal sanctuaries
Unlike more general zoos, animal sanctuaries often house specific species. For example, there are various donkey sanctuaries and places that look after horses and ponies, otter parks and seal sanctuaries.