iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

It’s not for entertainment, there is much more to it. I don’t expect you to understand the complexity of the Species Survival Plan (I’m not a biologist so that type of genealogy stuff goes over my head usually too)

010

Firstly, zoochosis is not a real term based in science. Repetitive behaviors are definitely real, but that term was coined by anti-zoo groups to push a false notion.

000

I don’t deny the dark past of zoos and the the colonialism that followed them. But like many things, the origins of something should not change it from improving for the better.

000

-Educates the public -Treats animals with the utmost respect WITH protective barriers ensuring both animals and staff are protected I’m definitely forgetting a few, but those are what immediately came to mind.

200

An aquarium/zoo that: -Excels in animal welfare, -Participates in multiple conservation projects (whether that be through breeding, working with indigenous communities, etc.) -Has at LEAST 1 collaborative project with accredited colleges and/or universities

200

You going through my profile to old posts proves my point. You hate, while zoos save.

000

Easy. Because you’re now going down my profile commenting and acting a fool. In other words, you are too hateful to rationally comprehend the situation.

000

This did not answer my question. If you’re unsure that’s fine.

100

Yes that is my account. And no not all zoos are bad. I would highly recommend learning to research each zoo individually. I would also suggest comparing and contrasting the conservation efforts in place.

100

That’s unfortunate and absolutely understandable. Modern accredited zoos are much more than places for entertainment. There is much more to them. “Herbivore” will intentionally not show that and block anyone refuting their false claims.

010

A large portion of the vegan movement cannot differentiate between good and bad zoos/aquariums. Which is why I will not be conforming to the lifestyle anytime soon.

200

Interesting image, when was the photo taken? Likely before the existence of accreditation.

100

Herbivore is likely not giving the full story when it comes to zoos. There is much more to accredited zoos than what you are being shown.

200

Melody Nicolette Pilotte ✨️coloratura soprano @lebasfondmusic.bsky.social · 05/01/2026

No, not quite. Your generalizations do nothing to help animals that are suffering in bad zoos. There are good zoos and bad zoos.

100

Reposted by Damien W.

There is a Zookeeper on TikTok who absolutely eviscerates PETA, propaganda like "Blackfish," and people who say things like, "zoos are c0nc3ntration camps for animals," with the both most nuanced and informed positions available, and it's truly a beautiful thing.

001

Reposted by Damien W.

Zoological Disaster Response, Rescue, and Recovery (ZDR3) @zdr3.bsky.social · 05/01/2026

Over 6 years our network has grown to include more than 220 members across 40 states & U.S. territories, representing #zoos, #aquariums, #sanctuaries, & specialized #wildlife organizations of every size. Preparedness is a shared responsibility that unites the entire zoological community.

A map of the U.S. includes icons representing ZDR3 Network member facility locations spread throughout the mainland, Hawaii, and Guam.

062

Reposted by Damien W.

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium @ptdefiancezoo.bsky.social · 03/01/2026

Shark Nursery Update from Raja Ampat! We have exciting news to kick off the new year: all 7 zebra shark eggs we sent to Bali have officially hatched at the RARCC nursery! That’s a 100% hatching success, which is truly incredible for this endangered species. The pups include 2 males and 5 females. 💙

518735

Reposted by Damien W.

Dr. Steven Whitfield @stevenwhitfield.bsky.social · 31/12/2025

Our results also show that flamingos in human care in zoos are genetically fit to serve as a source for reintroduction programs to Florida, which is a very exciting find - especially as there is increasing interest in active recovery programs for American Flamingos in Florida.

011

Are you referring to the conversation organizations that work in tandem with accredited zoos? If by “debunks” you mean greatly misrepresents the reach of zoos and aquariums, sure.

100

I dislike racism and homophobia but support accredited zoos. So in theory I’m the inverse.

000

This video is full of demonizing statements that aim to vilify the decades of conservation efforts enacted by reputable zoos and aquariums.

110

The “often” is being used as a generalization point to push an agenda. These cheap vilifications do nothing to help elephants that are actually suffering.

000

Damien W. @thatzooguy.bsky.social · 26/12/2025

Hi Pauline, Colo was not “imprisoned.” He lived a long and beautiful life.

000

Not all zoos are prisons. Painting them all with the same brush does nothing to help suffering animals.

100

Damien W. @thatzooguy.bsky.social · 23/12/2025

Almost all of the reasons you listed can be refuted with this: Some zoos are doing as you claim, yes. But not all of them. You make it black and white to push a false narrative. It makes your organization look disingenuous.

032

000

No, not quite. Registering as a sanctuary is actually easier and has less requirements then an accredited zoos/aquariums. Not all zoos are bad, nor all good. Same goes for sanctuaries as well.

200

Depnds on the zoo or aquarium. To the people reading these generalizations, do your own research before attending.

100

The animals in accredited zoos will stay. Those in unaccredited/roadside zoos will be moved to reputable sanctuaries or good zoos with proper training/care.

220

Not quite, Linda. The Law is in regards to unaccredited roadside captivity. Not all.

000

Damien W. @thatzooguy.bsky.social · 21/12/2025

Interesting. What would YOU suggest then?

100

Accredited zoos have ex-situ and in-situ conservation programs. Also yes, anthropomorphized. Animals do not exhibit emotions like we do. A smiling siamang is not “happy.” A frowning marmoset is not “sad.”

100

Damien W. @thatzooguy.bsky.social · 21/12/2025

I am on the side of zoological conservation that saves species from extinction and inspires people to care about our planet. Animal welfare is based in science while animal ‘rights’ are an anthropomorphized concept of non-human organisms. I’ll continue to work towards their wellbeing.

100

Seems like we both agree that we want accredited zoos to be more open about what goes on behind the scenes. Clearly for different reasons but regardless. You see it as an opening for attack though, which is why it will likely never happen on a large scale.

100

If you think minimum wage is really profiting, then we are definitely in different tax brackets…

000

If you truly think that people who work their butts off for minimum wage after going into college debt are in it for profit, you may be more misguided than previously thought.

100

Zoos USED to capture animals for profit, yes. But captures do not happen anymore unless under extreme circumstances (California condor, black-footed ferret etc.) Zoos used to be ALL bad Now SOME zoos are good.

100

The keepers that put their everything into the care of these animals would disagree immensely. Humans caused their plight(s), accredited zoos are trying to right those wrongs.

100

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance @denverzoo.bsky.social · 19/12/2025

Actually, Dr. Goodall supported AZA accredited zoos as well. She has direct ties to the Oregon Zoo as well as a handful of other accredited zoos.

000

Reposted by Damien W.

We’re proud to share that this mossy frog photo by Volunteer Photographer, Ron Bebus, was featured in the hardcopy edition of the AZA’s Connect Magazine! 📸 We’re incredibly thankful for Ron and all of our volunteer photographers who share their skills to support our mission.

0233

Oh I have a very similar opinion when it comes to the CEO’s of zoos. Considering that staff are making minimum wage. Accredited zoos are not prisons. Again, that is a generalization. There are many bad zoos, but the notion they’re all bad is misleading and false.

100

Gladly! Zoos and aquariums that have been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a good place to start (mainly united states/canada). Another accreditation body is WAZA ansd BIAZA. These certifications ensure that the animals are receiving the upmost care.

010

It truly depends on the zoo, Robin. Some are absolutely horrendous, while others are pinnacles for wildlife conservation.

110