I am writing this because it is something I care about deeply and it won't happen without the support of people like you. Starting a petition isn't something I would normally do, but I was moved to do so because there is a private organization that is planning to erect a zoo here in Midland, Tx. I know I'm not alone and together we can make this change happen. Please sign and share!

Zoos are prisons to unwilling wildlife and while residing within they are often mistreated and neglected. Their needs cannot be fully met and people cannot be trusted to act on behalf of their well-being. The exploitation of these lives is immoral and unnecessary. Humans do not have to use other animals for entertainment.

Some of the mistreatments include physical abuse/neglect, psychological abuse/neglect, experimentation and forced breeding. Let's leave wildlife in the wild and support their preservation there and in real sanctuaries. The proposed plan does not include an immense preserve for them to thrive, they will be in torturously small enclosures.

Don't already know of the conditions of most zoo animals and the effects being in zoos have on them? Please do your research before ignoring this petition.

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"Zoos are prisons for animals, camouflaging their cruelty with conservation claims," Mimi Bekhechi, director of international programmes at PETA

"Animals Suffer in Captivity"
"In zoos, animals' every decision – including what to eat, when to sleep, and whom they choose as a mate – is controlled by humans. They can't roam vast distances or do many of the other things that are natural and important to them."

"Captivity suppresses the natural instincts of wild animals. Animals suffer permanent frustration because they have no freedom of choice and cannot behave as they would do in their natural environment. This leads to a tendency toward genetic, physical and behavioral degeneration."

"https://www.idausa.org/experts-agree-zoos-harm-good/"

"Zoochosis is displayed through a wide variety of diverse stereotypical behaviors. These include, but are not limited to:

Pacing
Circling
Rocking back and forth
Swaying
Head-bobbing
Over-grooming
Hair-pulling and feather-plucking
Bar-biting
Excessive licking
Vomiting and regurgitation
Playing with excrement
Eating disorders such as anorexia
Addiction
Self-harm"

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Tell these developers they need to do better and this city will not stand for any more mistreatment and neglect of life. The exploitation of life forms for profit and entertainment needs to end. Let your voice be heard for those that don't have a voice, sign today before it is too late!