Japan is broadly rethinking how it works with wild animals in captivity, as attention grows to their health and comfort, reports infohub.kz.
At Zoorasia zoo in Yokohama, the interactive area where visitors could pet guinea pigs and mice has been closed. The administration took this step to protect the animals' health: due to summer heat and lack of proper air conditioning, the animals were stressed. To preserve the educational function, the rodents were moved to another zoo in the city with better conditions.
At the Marine World Uminonakamichi aquarium in Fukuoka, the popular touch pool has been eliminated. Visitors were allowed to touch starfish, sea urchins, and hermit crabs, but careless handling led to illness and death among the creatures. Experts note that abandoning such attractions aligns with global standards set by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Some institutions go further and refuse to keep species they cannot provide adequate comfort for. After the death of its only elephant, the zoo in Omuta decided not to acquire new ones. Elephants are herd animals, and the zoo lacks space for a group. A sign at the entrance explains to visitors why these giants are absent.