Haphazard Breeding in European Zoos is Dangerous

Farasi, the baby hippopotamus born at the Basel Zoo in Switzerland has become famous since his birth in November 2008. His birth also stirred up controversy when the public learned the Basel Zoo wasn't big enough to house Farasi and his father and policy dictated that the hippo be "destroyed" if another zoo couldn't adopt him. The harsh reality of zoo policies collided with the Swiss people's love of animals.An article in the Wall Street Journal said this about the haphazard breeding methods in European zoos. "American zoos believe in birth control or sexual abstinence for their animal populations. But Europe's 4,000 zoos take a more continental approach to reproductive rights: Animals should be free to do what comes naturally. The result is a surplus of offspring. And if zookeepers can't find a home for the babies, zoos typically kill them."The shocking reality of this policy moved the Swiss people to take action to save the baby hippo.

 And even though a new home hasn't been found yet, it appears little Farasi will be safe.  (to read more) 
http://www.care2.com/causes/animal-welfare/blog/Haphazard-breeding-in-European-zoos-is-dangerous/  (take the quick poll)