Zoological Society of San Diego: Position Statements
For significant issues affecting wildlife and the conservation of endangered species, the Zoological Society of San Diego has developed the following official positions representing the considered opinion of our organization regarding these pressing concerns:
Bushmeat
The Zoological Society of San Diego recognizes that the widespread consumption of wildlife in the bushmeat trade is an environmental catastrophe for which immediate action must be taken. (“Bushmeat” refers to meat, used for human consumption, which is gathered from the killing of wild animals, as opposed to animals that are domestically raised for this purpose). The causes and consequences of this critical situation are complex, and the solutions must be multi-focused. The Zoological Society, therefore, continues to commit cooperation and resources to local, national, and international efforts to stop the illegal commercial bushmeat trade and manage legal consumption of wildlife to sustainable levels.
Threat of lead poisoning in the environment
The Zoological Society of San Diego recognizes that lead is a known toxin to humans and animals. The dispersal of lead in the environment is a threat to humans and wildlife that may accidentally ingest it. Specifically, the use of lead ammunition is the single most significant obstacle to the recovery of the California condor in the wild. The causes and consequences of this critical situation are clear and widely documented. Clear-cut alternatives to lead are now available that do not limit or impact hunters. Therefore, the Zoological Society of San Diego commits cooperation and resources to local, national, and international efforts to promote the recovery of the California condor and a healthy environment through a ban on lead ammunition.
