Last Animals at the Zoo: How Mass Extinction Can Be Stopped

by Colin Tudge

In Last Animals at theZoo, Colin Tudge argues that zoos have become an essential part of modernconservation strategy, and that the only real hope for saving many endangeredspecies is through creative use of zoos in combination with restoration ofnatural habitats. From the genetics of captive breeding to techniques ofbehavioral enrichment, Tudge examines all aspects of zoo conservation programs and explains how the precarious existence of so many animals can best be protected.

Genres: Nonfiction, Nature, Animals

266 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1991

About the author

Colin Tudge was educated at Dulwich College, 1954-61; and read zoology at Peterhouse, Cambridge, 1962-65.

Since 1965 he has worked on journals such as World Medicine, New Scientist and Pan, the newspaper of the World Food Conference held in Rome, 1974.

Ever since then he has earned a living by spasmodic broadcasting and a lot of writing—mainly books these days, but with occasional articles. He has a special interest in natural history in general, evolution and genetics, food and agriculture, and spends a great deal of time on philosophy (especially moral philosophy, the philosophy of science, and the relationship between science and religion).

He has two daughters, one son, and four granddaughters, and lives in Oxford with his wife, Ruth (nee West).

Reviews

[Tom · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent essay on the critical roles zoos can fulfill in protecting biodiversity and preventing extinction. It helps appreciate our zoos, even when run for profit, as they can play a role in getting us through our current crises.