Once little more than spectacles for displaying animals in cramped iron-bar cages akin to prison cells, zoos have evolved into conservation centers with naturalistic free-ranging enclosures, educational displays, animal rescue facilities, and captive-breeding for endangered species. Here are some stories from the history of some of the most interesting Zoos and Aquariums in the United States. It includes: How two Zoos are disputing the title of "America's First Zoo"; How a rare deer was saved from extinction by a Chinese Emperor's hunting preserve; How a Zoo in New York put a human on display in the Monkey House; How a rescued Dolphin in Florida came to be the star of two Hollywood movies; How a popular California Aquarium resulted from a failed attempt by Disney to open a new park; How a telegenic Director transformed a small Zoo in Ohio into one of the most famous in the country; How a rich beer baron's hobby became one of the most popular attractions in Florida; How a Texas Zoo was involved in the last train robbery in the US. Other stories feature Giant Pandas, Komodo Dragons, California Condors, Right Whales, Sea Otters, Snow Leopards, Manatees, and more. Illustrated.