Chapter 10 - The conservation value of captive elephants

Abstract

There is an ongoing argument about whether or not zoos have a conservation function. This is a particularly important issue in relation to elephants kept in zoos due to the challenges of providing them with good welfare conditions. This chapter considers the popularity of zoo elephants with the public and their possible role in providing ‘insurance populations’ to prevent elephants becoming extinct. It discusses the value of the scientific research on elephants conducted in zoos and considers the claim that elephants in zoos have an educational function. It goes on to examine the role of zoos in providing professional training for local conservationists working with elephants and fundraising for in situ conservation. The chapter concludes by discussing captive breeding in range states and whether or not international conservation organisations support ex situ captive breeding programmes.