Conflict between activists and zoos shows no sign of going away

Zoos say they do valuable conservation work but their impact is limited as they are usually in temperate rather than tropical regions. Photograph: ZSL London Zoo/PA

A great treat for the kids with the gift of species conservation thrown in – or a wildlife prison? Trips to the zoo have become a far less simple day out than they used to be.

Animal rights activists have no doubt where the truth lies: “No one should ever support zoos,” said Peta, the animal rights organisation.