Video narration
If an endangered species needed protection, would you keep it in a national park-or move it to a zoo? In situ means protecting it in its natural habitat. A national park protects the animal and many species around it. Ex situ means protecting it outside that habitat, under human care. A conservation zoo can safeguard it while its home is unsafe. So which is better? That is the wrong choice. They solve different risks: in situ protects the home; ex situ protects the species when the home cannot be trusted. Ex situ is a backup, not a replacement. Returning animals works only when their habitat is safe again. Strong conservation uses both: protect wildlife in the national park and keep a safety net in the zoo when necessary. So where should the species be protected? In its natural home when safe-and elsewhere when it is not.