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Federal wildlife inspectors have uncovered alarming animal welfare violations at the Zoological Wildlife Foundation (ZWF) in Miami, owned by former drug lord Mario Tabraue, a figure infamous for his appearance in the Netflix series “Tiger King.” A recent inspection revealed that an endangered clouded leopard had to have its leg amputated, and a capybara was found dead, raising serious concerns about the facility’s practices and the treatment of its animals.
Disturbing Findings During Inspection
In a thorough review conducted at the end of March, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) identified multiple critical violations at ZWF, including inadequate housing conditions, filthy enclosures, and contaminated food and water sources filled with algae and dead insects. These troubling findings have reignited calls from animal rights advocates for the immediate closure of the facility, which charges exorbitant fees for offsite animal encounters.
Tabraue, who spent 12 years imprisoned for drug trafficking, has built a controversial reputation as the owner of ZWF, attracting visitors eager to see exotic animals up close, including alligators and arctic foxes. However, this business model has raised ethical questions about the welfare of the animals involved.
A Legacy of Neglect and Exploitation
The distressing incidents involving the clouded leopard, named Petra, and the capybara occurred in January. According to Danisha Bullock, a veterinary medical officer, the injuries were a direct result of incompatible animal housing, a clear violation of the Animal Welfare Act. Petra was placed in proximity to a male leopard for breeding purposes, which led to a serious attack and the subsequent amputation
