For some animals it doesn't seem to make much of a difference. For example, lots of spiders can be kept in a small box; and as long as you don't forget to drop in a cricket twice a month, the eight-legged monster will be quite content. What I mean is that if the natural habitat of a given critter is copied well enough, and the critter is born there (and has plenty of room), zoos aren't such bad places. Great educational value.

Problem is, a good zoo is a rare thing. Most date from years and years past and are more like historical curiosities instead of animal-friendly places. Then again, I strive for perfection, something I can't say for many others.

In truth, many zoo animals may indeed live the good life -- better than the people who imprisoned them or come to gawk at them. Ironic, eh?