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Providence’s Roger Williams Park Zoo has consistently been recognized as a leading zoological institution, as well as regional tourism magnet.  

But with increased scrutiny being placed on animal captivity, I sat down with Roger Williams’ Executive Director, Dr. Jeremy Goodman, for a wide-ranging conversation about the his operation’s conservation, rehabilitation and educational work, captive animal management practices and the role that the zoo serves in Rhode Island communities.  

I asked Dr. Goodman about the broad ethics of zoos and animal captivity, leading to a discussion that ranged from his experience with Roger Williams’ three elephants to a look at South American bird and fish trafficking.  

Our discussion revealed many specific details that should factor into any debate about Roger Williams Park Zoo’s own practices.

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