Zoo medicine is a branch of veterinary medicine that focuses on the care and treatment of animals in zoos, wildlife parks, and other captive animal facilities. It involves the application of medical knowledge to ensure the health and well-being of these animals, often working with species that are endangered or threatened in their natural habitats. This field requires specialized skills and knowledge beyond traditional veterinary medicine, as zoological animals have unique needs and challenges due to their captive environments. Zoo medicine professionals work closely with animal caretakers, nutritionists, behavioral scientists, and other experts to provide the best possible care for these animals.