The Modern Zoo: Demographics and Perceptions of Two International Groups of Zoo Staff

Characterising the people that work in zoos is a key element of understanding how might better contribute to conservation activities. The purpose this study was investigate demographics, early life experiences and perceptions zoo staff role modern zoo. This paper reports characteristics qualitative themes emerging from international (European Chinese) professionals. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with eight Chinese European about aspects zoological animal welfare, practices. These data thematically analysed, generated. describes interviewee demographics two relating ‘early influences’ ‘the zoo’. analysis indicates demographic influences professionals broadly similar between culturally diverse regions, but their views on differed, particularly terms activities, interviewees focussing biodiversity conservation, protection.