I do like the zoo, I think it is pretty famous in the nation due to it's natural habitats but at the same time I can't help but feel for the animals - esp that polar bear.
I remember Ham the astrochimp throwing feces at me at the NC Zoo! One of my favorite memories! Missed me and hit my roommates :twisted:
There was one at the Norfolk Zoo that used to do that when I was a kid. Years later I remember reading that they removed him to some psychological issues.
Here's a little history and a picture of a young Ham, about to be strapped onto an explosive device built by the cheapest bidder! http://www.cynical-c.com/?p=4793
I agree about the polar bear, however I think his actions are probably out of boredom. When he and his two sisters were first brought to the zoo, they acted as if they were having a blast. The zoo later traded him to a zoo in Ohio (I think) acquired another male and later the two sisters of the original male died. It was reported that they had been a part of some central american traveling circus or zoo (something) and their health was never that good. The zoo has since acquired the original male again and the last I heard, was waiting for some playmates.
I find it very difficult to believe that some government agency is not stepping in to remove the animal from Seaworld. Seaworld has said that it is a valuable animal and they are keeping him. I can't think of another animal that has killed a person and not been destroyed. I don't know if the animal should be destroyed, but it shouldn't remain in captivity to endanger more human lives.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Af67qv5Dzg&feature=player_embedded Listen to the words of the song! If people want to see these animals they should take the butts to the ocean... Let them be FREE!!! Just makes me mad.
They were part of a circus and apparently abused and not fed properly. I think his head swaying is supposed to be due to his abuse more so than boredom. I do feel bad for zoo animals(particularly b/c of a very human look of disdain and sadness on a chimp) but I feel there is a big difference between that and making wild animals perform tricks.
Just got this email from the NCZoo... Zoo Society Members: Join us for Earth Hour on March 27, 2010, to take a moonlight stroll into the Park to watch the Polar Bear swim and play in its exhibit. You will have plenty of time to meet two of the keepers who keep the Polar Bears and talk to volunteers about bear care at the N.C. Zoo. This Polar Night Show will go on, rain or moonshine. We will provide flashlights for strolling in the Park, and the Polar Bear keepers have prepared some very special, very luminous treats to make the night fun for the Polar Bear, too. This program is limited to 100 people. Our moonlight stroll begins at 8:15 and ends at 9:30 p.m. Reservations are required. We will accept reservation in the order that ticket payment is received. Tickets may be purchased online. Tickets are $25 each, and the price of each ticket is fully tax-deductible. All funds raised at this event will go to Polar Bear conservation. This program will fill up quickly and is limited to members only. Click here ( http://www.nczoo.com/visit/20090813144817209 ) to learn more.
