<b>Environmental perception of zoo visitors of brasilia and the ability to learn and teach in such environment

Abstract

Environmental perception within informal education environments, such as zoos, may be a way to assess the needs and possible difficulties that these environments have to produce a direct interaction with the public. In fact, they convey information that will foster a critical and ethical sense which at the same time is also environmentally friendly. Current article studies the environmental perception of zoo visitors inBrasilia State,Brazil, where their perception about the information that the zoo intends to transfer is assessed, coupled to what they should do and for some reason could not. There is a main interest in knowing the origin of the animals and their final destination. It became clear that visitors did not know exactly the zoo´s functions. It is necessary that clearer practices and unrestricted access are conducted on the zoo premises, which will result in more informed visitors, environmentally educated and potential agents active within the conservation of biodiversity.