Depending on the zoo, a lot function as very large animal shelters. My hometown has a really good zoo that’s run by a nonprofit organization, and they go to huge lengths to make sure the habitats for the animals fit their natural environments.

Most of the animals there have suffered injuries, or have some sort of defect or medical issue that prevents them being able to be released. Part of the property is also a wildlife reserve.

I get your knee jerk reaction but zoos do have a place