Controversial Miami Zoo Faces Scrutiny Over Animal Welfare Violations

Rebecca Stone, Science Editor
1 Min Read
⏱️ 1 min read

A recent inspection by federal wildlife authorities has unveiled a troubling series of animal welfare violations at the Zoological Wildlife Foundation (ZWF) in Miami, a facility owned by former drug kingpin Mario Tabraue. This roadside zoo, notorious for its connections to the Netflix documentary *Tiger King*, has come under fire following the severe injury of an endangered clouded leopard and the death of a capybara attributed to inadequate care and unsafe housing conditions.

Disturbing Findings from the Inspection

During a routine examination on 30 March, officials from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) identified multiple infractions at ZWF, including unsanitary enclosures, unsafe housing, and contaminated food and water sources. The inspection revealed that the animals were kept in filthy cages, posing significant health risks. Among the most alarming incidents was the amputation of a female clouded leopard’s leg after a male leopard attacked her during

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Rebecca Stone is a science editor with a background in molecular biology and a passion for science communication. After completing a PhD at Imperial College London, she pivoted to journalism and has spent 11 years making complex scientific research accessible to general audiences. She covers everything from space exploration to medical breakthroughs and climate science.
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