The phrase "zoo animals" refers to the animals that live in a zoo, which is a place where people can go to see different types of animals that they don't usually find in their everyday life. Full definition
It's not every day you find a corporate executive taking care of zoo animals. (investor.protective.com)
Other paths you may wish to choose among include caring for zoo animals or animals housed in wildlife parks. (veterinarymedicinecareers.org)
Remember that emotions and pressure are high after disasters and it's not appropriate to dive in and make residents of impacted communities feel like zoo animals or a tourist attraction. (gse.harvard.edu)