Proof of what we always suspected: Who you calling ugly? Zoos prefer cute animals to less attractive species, research shows.
"Selection of species into world zoos is determined by decisions made by
humans, and intelligent and beautiful animals seem to be favoured," the
researchers say.
More than seven million animals are kept in 872 zoos and aquariums
worldwide. Zoologists from Prague's Charles University investigated the
range of mammals kept and which were left out. Out of 5,334 mammalian
species, only 1,048 of them, or 16 per cent, were found in the world zoo
collection. The team used data on brain size and attractiveness to
humans to see why some species were being left out in the cold.
But! Much more cheerful news: Zoo showcasing 'five evil animals' ahead of Dragon Boat Festival
An exhibition featuring animals traditionally mislabeled as sinister
symbols is currently on display at Taipei Zoo to celebrate the Dragon
Boat Festival, seen as a time when evil spirits are awakened, zoo
officials said Tuesday.
Snakes, scorpions, centipedes, toads and
geckos -- also known as the "five poisons" -- were believed in ancient
Chinese culture to be evil and their spirits were thought to "possess"
unfortunate human beings during the festival.
But zoo official
Lin Hui-chen said the zoo hopes its exhibition, which runs until June
30, can help break the myth and raise awareness of animal protection.
Building on the momentum of the "Year of the Snake," Lin said, some of
the creatures most feared by human beings will have a chance to show
their true colors.
(Lovely and not at all evil Asian common toad from Wikipedia.)
2 Comments
Close this window Jump to comment formHow dare those zoos. Ugly is interesting, ugly has character. Cute is just cute sometimes, but ugly is always neat.
June 06, 2013
I couldn't agree more!
June 07, 2013