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Animal sanctuaries at the heart of discussions
by Frederique Gilbert

September 9, 2021, for the Association of Journalists-Writers for Nature and Ecology

What is an animal sanctuary?

An animal sanctuary is a facility where animals are brought to live and be protected for the rest of their lives. In some cases, a settlement may have the characteristics of both sanctuary and refuge; for example, some animals may be in residence temporarily until a better place for the animal is offered, or keep them for life because it is the best solution for them. Animals that live in a sanctuary have the opportunity to behave as naturally as possible in a protective environment.

Are sanctuaries dedicated to reintroducing animals into the wild?

Hand-raised animals cannot survive in the wild. Different species, especially mammals, learn to hunt and forage, protect themselves from predators, and interact with other individuals. Animals raised by humans will not have these skills and therefore will not survive.
In addition, food does not present itself in the same way in the wild and in captivity. For example, captive marine mammals receive thawed fish. Freezing kills all bacteria and viruses in food. Animals that have lived in ponds have therefore never been confronted with this and can quickly become ill in the natural environment.
Scientists work very carefully on species reintroduction programs, first of all they minimize human contact with these animals and design special enclosures to ensure their survival in the wild. The premise of a wildlife sanctuary is to prevent breeding for human entertainment. It is possible that sanctuaries spend a lot of money to rehabilitate these captive animals that are not ready for the wild, and die soon after in the wild.
It might be more effective to fund conservation projects for wild or born animals specifically for these programs.

Do animals roam free in sanctuaries?

Sanctuaries should provide multiple opportunities for physical and psychological stimulation. The purpose of enrichment is to provide means for animals to engage in natural behaviors, not to create an attractive place for humans. The social needs of animals should also be a top priority in forming relationships, herds and packs…
Depending on the specific needs of different species, animals need ample horizontal and vertical space to explore, roam, climb, swim, wade and feed. A place where the animal stays in good health and is monitored by veterinarians.

Should pedagogy be present in sanctuaries?

Shrines educate the public in two ways. First, like zoos, animals in sanctuaries can act as animal ambassadors. Sanctuaries provide educational content through their websites and social media pages, and some sanctuaries offer tours to the public (observing from a distance, without disturbing the animals), very interesting to observe natural behaviors… Yes yes, the seals spend a good part of their lives on land.
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