Danpbphoto
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gmccroskery wrote:
These are excellent, Dan. I especially love that B&W shot, not withstanding that their color is so beautiful. Nice work.
As for the zoo issue, I feel it depends on the zoo, their philosophy and mission, and the state of the habitats and care of the keepers.
Most of the zoos I tend to frequent, like the Austin Zoo are very focused on rescue and rehab animals. Their stated mission is: "The mission of Austin Zoo is to assist animals in need through rescue, conservation and education."
Without these types of zoos, most of these animals would have to be euthanized. I have spoken often with the workers who care for the animals, and they dearly love these creatures and are diligent in caring for them.
So when I go to take photos and/or take the grand kids, I know that the money I am spending is helping these animals receive food, medical care, and a clean, safe environment to live in.
While it is not optimal, it is much better than the alternative in my opinion.
I'm in the same boat with you -- I would love to go on an African Safari, and I enjoy the amazing photos from those who can, but at this stage of my life, I am simply too old and too broke. :-)
P.S. Those tigers in your images don't appear to be too terribly miserable to me -- except, maybe the first one trying to get in the door for some grub!
Greg...Show more →
This is from the Washington Natl Zoo and they are VERY pro-animal Greg! I was a FONZ for 20 years(Friends of the Natl Zoo). I worked at a "wild cat rehab farm" in Western Virginia Natl Zoo rehab Center - Front Royal, VA. I tended to a beautiful jet black Panther called Negra. She had pure gold eyes and her teeth were whiter than new snow! Her black fur has a veru glossy sheen to it! I would take my bag lunch and sit under a tree near her. She really was pissed at first, ears back, snarling, teeth showing and she would charge the fenced enclosure at me. After about a week of cleaning her "house" and talking to her, she grew to notice my voice and my smell and also smelled my sandwiches!! She eventually approached the wire fence one day and just laid down. I tossed a piece of turkey into a space between the links in the cage and she loved it! After a few more of these lunches and talking, she allowed me to sit and eat without any fear. eah she would watch me intently but my moves were always the same and she grew to realize I was no threat.
Eventually she would come out when I sat for my bagged lunch and sit beside me. There were 2 rows of anchor steel fencing between us. I would talk and some times she would purr. I gave her 1/2 of my sandwich and half of my apple, pear or peach. She loved it. As I did!
Then summer ended!
I am also in the same boat as you about safaris! I am to old and a caregiver so I cannot go. PLUS, I also am not in financial position to go.
Thanks!
Dan
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