Zoos play a vital role in ensuring the survival of many species, particularly those that are critically endangered. Habitat destruction, climate change, and illegal poaching are just some of the factors that threaten wildlife across the globe, and zoos have become essential in countering these threats through conservation breeding, rehabilitation, and reintroduction programs.

For many species, the wild no longer offers a safe environment due to the loss of their natural habitats. Deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion have severely impacted ecosystems, leaving animals with fewer places to live and hunt. Zoos provide a sanctuary where animals can live safely, while biologists work to rehabilitate natural environments or search for ways to safely reintroduce animals back into the wild.

In some cases, zoos are the last refuge for species that are no longer found in the wild. Animals like the Scimitar-horned Oryx or the California Condor owe their continued existence to the breeding and reintroduction programs in zoos. The goal is always to ensure that one day these species can return to the wild when conditions are safer.

Zoos also contribute to genetic diversity, which is critical for the long-term health of a species. Through selective breeding programs, zoos help maintain a healthy genetic pool, which is necessary for adapting to changing environments and resisting diseases.

In conclusion, zoos provide not only a temporary home for endangered species but also serve as crucial hubs for breeding, research, and rehabilitation, ensuring the survival of many species that would otherwise face extinction.