By about 1250 BC, the ancient Egyptians had created and practiced the capture and display of animals in what are now known as zoos (Fravel). The documents describe exotic animals such as birds, lions, giraffes and tigers in captivity (Fravel). Since then, zoos have continued to entertain millions of people with the exciting chance to see exotic animals up close and personal. Even in ancient Greece, exotic animals were displayed in fighting arenas and closed viewing areas. Originally in America, zoos were created so that royalty and the wealthy could show off their exotic animals (Leolupus) to the public. Today, with threatened species and disappearing habitats around the world, zoos have a new purpose other than simply exhibiting animals: conservation. (Fravel). When you think of a zoo, you think of a fun, entertaining place that offers up-close and exciting displays of wild animals that you would otherwise never have the chance to see, or a place where people continue to suffer, unhappy animals captive just for entertainment and exposure. However, whatever your opinion and despite the stereotypes, some zoos have evolved to serve alternative and useful purposes. Although some zoos face controversy due to allegations such as lack of space and quality care, abandonment, and cruelty, some zoos have programs specifically designed to help and protect animal species. For example, these zoos have programs that aid conservation efforts such as breeding. Due to breeding, these endangered species, two examples of which are the golden lion tamarin and Przewalski's wild horse, have increased significantly in numbers (Smithsonian). Although they are bred in captivity, it protects and preserves the animals from s...... middle of paper ......za.org/reintroduction-programs/>.Fravel, L..Np. Network. 9 January 2014. .Leolupus, . NP Network. 7 January 2014. .Miller, A.. Np. Network. 7 January 2014. .Np. Network. January 7, 2014. .Smithsonian National Zoological Park, . NP Network. 7 January 2014. .Southwick, . NP Rete. 7 January 2014. difference in the situation of animals in danger of extinction />. Traw, Kelly, . NP Network. 7 January 2014. .