In addition to gladiator fights, the Colosseum offered Romans a rare opportunity to see exotic creatures such as lions, elephants, bears, crocodiles, and ostriches. However, these events were nothing like a visit to a zoo. In fact, the animals were often there to participate in "wild beast hunts" staged by professional hunters. The Colosseum also served as a venue for theatrical reenactments of famous battles. The "actors" were usually prisoners, forced to portray soldiers in legendary armies battling for control of the Roman city-state. On special occasions, the amphitheater would even be flooded with water to stage mock sea battles that included actual ships.

Question

In addition to gladiator fights, the Colosseum offered Romans a rare opportunity to see exotic creatures such as lions, elephants, bears, crocodiles, and ostriches. However, these events were nothing like a visit to a zoo. In fact, the animals were often there to participate in "wild beast hunts" staged by professional hunters. The Colosseum also served as a venue for theatrical reenactments of famous battles. The "actors" were usually prisoners, forced to portray soldiers in legendary armies battling for control of the Roman city-state. On special occasions, the amphitheater would even be flooded with water to stage mock sea battles that included actual ships.
why were elephants and other animals brought to the Colosseum?
So the animals could be used in hunting performances
So Roman citizens could learn more about the animals
So emperors could impress people with thier exotic pets 
So the animals could be used to help the colosseum

GPT 3.5 · Answer

So the animals could be used in hunting performances.