The welfare of animals in UK zoos is under scrutiny as reports highlight severe conditions leading to distress and abnormal behaviors, termed 'zoochosis.' A gentoo penguin's confinement in a dim basement at London’s Sea Life aquarium exemplifies the troubling state of many enclosures. Activists, including Peta’s Elisa Allen, emphasize that the complex needs of wild animals are often unmet, resulting in self-destructive behaviors such as pacing and self-mutilation. With over 300 licensed zoos in the UK attracting more than 30 million visitors annually, concerns about animal suffering are mounting. Investigations reveal that many zoos fail to provide adequate living conditions, leading to health risks and behavioral issues. While zoos claim to contribute to conservation, critics argue that only a fraction of their funds supports wildlife efforts. High-profile incidents, including keeper fatalities and animal deaths, further illustrate the dangers associated with keeping wild animals in captivity. The debate continues over the ethical implications of zoos, with calls for better treatment of animals and a shift towards supporting wildlife conservation directly.