<p>Modern zoos look very different from the menageries many people imagine. In this episode, we explore how zoos have evolved into centres of conservation, animal welfare, and behavioural science.</p><p>We’re joined by <strong>Jim Mackie</strong>, animal training and behavioural officer at <strong>London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoos</strong>, to unpack some of the biggest concerns animal lovers have about zoos today. From behavioural enrichment and positive training to ethical care and stress reduction, Jim explains the science and daily work that goes into improving the lives of animals in modern zoos.</p><p>We also look at the conservation role zoos play beyond their gates, highlighting real examples from Jim’s work with <strong>African wild dogs, elephants, lemurs and even salamanders; </strong>species that have benefited from breeding programmes, behavioural research, and conservation partnerships.</p><p>For anyone who has ever been skeptical about animals living in zoos, this episode offers an inside look at how zoos fit into the <strong>wider conservation landscape</strong>—and why their role may be more important than many people realise.</p><p><br></p><p>For more information on the work that Jim is doing, please visit:</p><p>https://www.zsl.org/ </p><p>https://biaza.org.uk/</p>