Puerto Rico's only zoo is shutting down after years of suspected negligence, a lack of resources and deaths of animals that were highlighted by activists.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico --
Puerto Rico's government announced the permanent closure of the 45-acre zoo Monday as federal authorities investigate allegations of mistreatment of animals. Sanctuary officials visited the zoo on Sunday — a visit that was supposed to have occurred in 2017 before the hurricanes hit, sanctuary executive director Pat Craig told The Associated Press, noting that people already were concerned about the animals at that point.
Previously, a government-appointed committee had raised concerns about two pumas that died, an underweight chimpanzee and a rhinoceros named Felipe that was limping. It also noted that dozens of animals needed vaccines or physical tests, and that a kangaroo and a porcupine were among animals that didn’t have shelter.
Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural Resources has said it is cooperating in plans for transfers and with the continuing investigation in the zoo, which opened in 1954.
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