As one of the world's most popular cultural activities, wild animal collections have been attracting visitors for 5,000 years. Under the direction of Vernon N. Kisling, an expert in zoo history, an international team of authors has compiled the first comprehensive, global history of animal collections, menageries, zoos, and aquariums. Zoo and Aquar
Wild animals have fascinated human observers since time immemorial. The story of our interest in collecting, classifying and dominating Nature so that its inner workings could be understood also looms large in the history of science, and thus it is surprising that the history of menageries, zoological gardens and the zoo as we know it today has been so poorly documented. This gap is addressed by Zoo, a comprehensive history of the zoo in the Western world.
Explore the captivating legacy of Europe's zoological gardens with C. V. A. Peel's definitive guide, "The Zoological Gardens of Europe: Their History and Chief Features," a comprehensive journey into the evolution, significance, and conservation efforts of these iconic institutions. Join C. V. A. Peel as he unveils the rich tapestry of Europe's most esteemed zoological gardens, tracing their origins from early menageries to modern-day centers of conservation and education. This meticulously researched book offers an in-depth exploration of each garden's unique history, architectural marvels, and pivotal role in global biodiversity conservation. Discover the architectural splendor and naturalistic habitats that house a diverse array of species, from majestic big cats to rare primates and exotic birds. Peel's narrative transports readers through time and space, highlighting the gardens' contributions to scientific research, public awareness, and the preservation of endangered wildlife. Themes of environmental stewardship, animal welfare, and public engagement resonate throughout Peel's narrative, showcasing how these institutions have evolved from mere displays of exotic animals to crucial hubs of conservation and education. His passionate advocacy for wildlife protection and sustainability underscores the urgent need for global action in safeguarding our planet's natural heritage. The tone of the book is both informative and reverent, celebrating the achievements of European zoological gardens while addressing contemporary challenges such as habitat loss and species extinction. Peel's eloquent prose and deep knowledge make this book essential reading for anyone interested in wildlife conservation, cultural history, and the intersection of human and animal coexistence. Highly regarded for its scholarly rigor and narrative depth, "The Zoological Gardens of Europe" offers a compelling narrative that will resonate with conservationists, educators, and animal lovers alike. Peel's meticulous research and compelling storytelling make this book a definitive resource on the past, present, and future of Europe's zoological heritage. Whether you're fascinated by biodiversity, intrigued by architectural design, or passionate about environmental conservation, "The Zoological Gardens of Europe" invites you on a captivating journey through centuries of dedication to wildlife preservation and public education. Immerse yourself in the wonders of these remarkable gardens and discover their enduring impact on our understanding of the natural world. Don't miss your opportunity to delve into the cultural and conservation legacy of Europe's zoological gardens. Pick up a copy of "The Zoological Gardens of Europe: Their History and Chief Features" by C. V. A. Peel today and embark on a fascinating exploration of these extraordinary institutions.
Illustrated with nearly 100 photographs, New Worlds, New Animals gives readers a new respect for and understanding of the role of zoos in social and cultural history.
"A well-written and provocative, opinion-rich account of zoos, their history, and their goals and purposes. Hancocks has earned the right to speak authoritatively about these subjects, thanks to his tenure as director of two leading U. S. zoos. This book will appeal to general readers and to all persons interested in zoos and their role in conservation and education."—John Alcock, author of Animal Behavior: An Evolutionary Approach "Giraffes, elephants, gorillas, snakes, and toucans respond poorly to the usual conventions of human architecture. Zoo architects usually respond no less poorly to the needs of animals. David Hancocks draws on a lifetime's experience working as a zoo director and zoo architect to explore this dilemma, and offers a compelling vision for the future. This is an important book for those interested in conservation as well as for zoo and museum buffs."—William Conway, former President and General Director of the Wildlife Conservation Society and the Bronx Zoo "For over two decades David Hancocks has fervently tried to reform the fundamental character and mission of zoos. This book is his most thorough analysis of what is wrong with them and his most detailed and compelling plea for improvement. Every conscientious zoo administrator, curator, and keeper should read it from cover to cover with an open mind. Professionals in botanical gardens, museums, and nature parks should also consider this treatise because Hancocks advocates that a fusion of all of these institutions into a new entity better positioned to interpret the entire biosphere."-Mark A. Dimmitt, Director of Natural History, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
In response to the general lack of information about zoo libraries, this book, first published in 1988, compiles a collection of descriptions of the libraries serving six American zoos. The accounts of zoo libraries include the National Zoological Park in Washington, DC, the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago, and the Minnesota Zoological Garden Library in St. Paul. The contributors detail the types of collections and services offered at zoo libraries. In addition, a survey made of 78 American zoo libraries is included, including information about their staffs, facilities, collections, and services, as well as data on 32 archive collections.
Recognized today as one of America's best zoos, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has become one of Columbia, South Carolina's most popular tourist destinations and one of the most visited zoos in the southeastern United States. Riverbanks celebrates its fortieth anniversary on April 25, 2014. Over the last four decades both the zoo and the garden have been honored with many regional and national awards for excellence. Among its many accolades, Riverbanks has received five prestigious Edward H. Bean Awards from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, most recently in 2011 for the long-term breeding and conservation of the endangered Bali mynah. Riverbanks also has been honored with three Travel Attraction of the Year Awards by the Southeast Tourism Society and two Governor's Cup Awards by the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism as the state's Most Outstanding Attraction. Riverbanks Botanical Garden has received praise by Horticulture magazine as one of ten gardens that inspire and by HGTV as one of twenty great public gardens in the United States. What began in the mid-1960s as a modest dream of a few business leaders to create a small children's petting zoo has evolved into today's nationally ranked Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, visited by more than one million guests annually and supported by a membership base of more than thirty-three thousand households. Riverbanks is home to more than two thousand animals, which reside in natural habitat exhibits with barriers that are designed to create an environment almost totally free of bars and cages. Much like the zoo itself, this book features extraordinary animals, dynamic natural habitats, and significant historic landmarks. Riverbanks's rich history is captured here through anecdotal stories and nearly two hundred brilliant photographs and illustrations, making it easy to see why Riverbanks is recognized as one of the nation's great zoological parks and botanical gardens. Readers will discover some of the world's most magnificent and fascinating plants and animals that call Riverbanks home, while gaining a deeper understanding of how a midsized zoo gained world-class status as it pursued its mission: to foster an appreciation and concern for all living things. Proceeds from the purchase of this book go directly to the Riverbanks Society, the private, nonprofit organization supporting the mission of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.