This study investigates the relationship between zoo collection composition, socioeconomic factors, visitor attendance, and *in situ* conservation efforts. Using a global dataset of over 450 zoos, the researchers developed a model showing that zoos with more animals, larger animals, high species richness (especially mammals), and collections dissimilar to other zoos attract more visitors and contribute more to *in situ* projects. However, a trade-off between the number of animals and body mass suggests that alternative strategies, like having many small animals, might be effective. The findings can guide collection planning to increase zoos' *in situ* conservation contributions and help reduce global biodiversity loss.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
Feb 04, 2020
Authors
Andrew Mooney, Dalia A. Conde, Kevin Healy, Yvonne M. Buckley
Tags
zoo collection
socioeconomic factors
visitor attendance
in situ conservation
species richness
biodiversity
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