Dear John,

It's Easter Weekend... which also means that it's Zoo Awareness Weekend! 

Outside the gates of zoos and aquariums across the UK this bank holiday weekend, dedicated grassroots activists are holding peaceful protests to raise awareness of the reality for animals trapped in captivity. 

And this year, they have explosive news to share...

We have carried out vital research into zoos' 'stocklists', and the findings are devastating. Animals are dying in their thousands, including endangered species that zoos claim to be protecting. 

So far, we have analysed the records of 75 zoos that submitted data showing their population fluctuations since January 2024. 60% of these zoos saw more animals die in their care than were born there - 44,620 deaths in total.

This is completely unjustifiable. 

We are so grateful to all of the dedicated activists protesting outside Chester Zoo, Knowsley Safari Park, Twycross Zoo, Edinburgh Zoo, London Zoo, Belfast Zoo, Dublin Zoo and SEALIFE Aquarium in Brighton and London this weekend, sharing the truth of captivity. 

Zoos do not contribute to meaningful conservation, it is a complete con which they are using to mislead the public. Animals are being forced to suffer in captivity so that they can make money from their exploitation. 

You can help us to take a stand against this cruelty. There are still a number of events happening on Easter Sunday and Monday, but there are also so many ways you can help animals at home: 

Boycott all zoos and aquariums

Write to DEFRA to demand full transparency on zoo activities

Donate today to help drive this campaign

However you choose to get involved, from all of us at Freedom for Animals, thank you. We could not continue to share the truth about captivity if not for your support. We will have more news to share on this important research, so keep your eyes peeled for updates soon. 

For the animals, 


Laura Walton
Campaigns Manager
Freedom for Animals