u/Lazy_Raptor_Comics

So I’m creating a story involving a zoo based on my hometown zoo (ZooTampa at Lowry Park)

One interesting thing I learned was that at one point in time, the zoo actually kept a small herd of Przewalski’s Horse (around 1994, according to an article I’ll link in a follow up comment)

I personally find this to be very intriguing, and is something I’d love to feature in my story.

But I question the ethics of such a decision. I want this project to be somewhat realistic. And follow a code of ethics similar to what modern zoos have. This includes housing animals in appropriate environments

The Przewalski’s Horse is typically housed in more northern zoos, as they’re said to prefer colder climates.

However, the Sand Diego Zoo Safari Park in California and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Texas also house these animals. And they’re in warmer climates. But there’s a difference between an Arid Climate and a Humid Climate.

The species Equus ferus was once found in Florida over 10,000 years ago. However, a lot has changed since then, and Przewalski’s Horse are a different population from those.

I guess my fear is that Florida is too hot for them. But at the same time, horses appear to be very adaptable animals. Even breeds like Clydesdale’s can manage in Florida. So it leads me to think that their wild counterparts could manage as well.

But I’d rather ask people who know more than me (I’d assume you guys)