The effects of zoo environments on public attitudes toward endangered wildlife

摘要: Slides of animals in natural, semi‐natural, and zoo settings were rated by college students on a number semantic differential scales. Results indicate that the setting which an animal is exhibited determines to great extent public's attitude toward animal. Zoo are seen as significantly less dignified, confined, unhappy, unnatural, tame, dependent, etc. A factor analysis three environments provides further evidence displaying zoos detracts from their inherent dignity eyes public. Recommendations made for exhibiting ways will enhance appreciation them, advance conservation efforts.