Target: Dr. Christoph Schwitzer, Director of the Dublin Zoo, Dublin, Ireland
Goal: Commit to phasing out captive exotic megafauna and reorient Dublin Zoo into a sanctuary for injured, orphaned, and threatened native Irish wildlife.
A prominent Irish animal advocate has urged Dublin Zoo to shift from exhibiting large exotic species toward a sanctuary model centered on native wildlife care and rehabilitation. Critics contend that elephants and other megafauna cannot thrive in confined environments that fall short of replicating complex natural habitats, and that ongoing captive breeding of such species in urban zoos is increasingly seen as outdated. Supporters of reform argue a sanctuary mission would better align with modern ethics and local conservation needs.
Conservation biologists counter that accredited zoos play a role in safeguarding endangered species through cooperative breeding and education, while acknowledging that habitat loss often limits successful reintroduction. Even so, a Dublin-based sanctuary model in Phoenix Park could prioritize rescue, veterinary care, rehabilitation, and release for native species, while gradually and humanely transitioning current exotic residents to accredited sanctuaries where appropriate and feasible. This approach would maintain education and research while focusing resources on Ireland’s ecosystems.
A transparent plan could include independent welfare audits, public timelines for ending captive breeding of non-native megafauna, and partnerships with Irish wildlife hospitals and sanctuaries. This petition respectfully urges Dublin Zoo to lead in Europe by committing to a phased, welfare-first transformation: end breeding of exotic megafauna, expand native wildlife rehabilitation, and publish a roadmap that safeguards every individual animal during the transition.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Dr. Schwitzer,
We respectfully ask Dublin Zoo to commit to a phased transition from exhibiting exotic megafauna to operating as a sanctuary for native Irish wildlife. Recent public discussion highlights growing concern that large non-native species, such as elephants, may not thrive in urban zoo settings that cannot replicate the breadth and complexity of their natural habitats. At the same time, advocates emphasize the urgent need for expanded rescue, veterinary care, and rehabilitation capacity for native species.
We recognize that accredited zoos contribute to conservation education and coordinated breeding programs. However, a forward-looking model in Phoenix Park could center on native species rescue and release, alongside robust public education about habitat protection, road-traffic mitigation, and coexistence with Ireland’s wildlife. Such a transformation—planned transparently and implemented humanely—would honor animal welfare, advance local conservation, and set a new standard for ethical leadership.
Accordingly, we urge Dublin Zoo to publish a roadmap that ends captive breeding of non-native megafauna, secures accredited sanctuary placements when appropriate and feasible, strengthens partnerships with Irish wildlife hospitals and rehabilitation networks, and establishes independent welfare audits throughout the transition. With clear timelines and public accountability, Dublin Zoo can demonstrate that compassionate, science-based care for native wildlife defines the next chapter of zoological leadership in Ireland.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: pelican
