A recent inspection of the Zoological Wildlife Foundation (ZWF) in Miami has revealed alarming animal welfare violations, following incidents involving the injury of an endangered clouded leopard and the death of a capybara. The findings have reignited calls for stricter regulation and the potential closure of the facility, which is owned by Mario Tabraue, a former drug trafficker featured in the notorious Netflix documentary *Tiger King*.
Shocking Violations Uncovered
During a comprehensive inspection conducted on 30 March by federal wildlife officials, multiple breaches of the Animal Welfare Act were documented. Among the critical findings, inspectors noted that the conditions for the animals were inadequate, with unsafe housing and filthy enclosures. Water and food supplies were found to be contaminated, raising serious concerns about the health and well-being of the animals housed at the facility.
The incidents that drew particular scrutiny involved Petra, a female clouded leopard, who suffered a severe leg injury that ultimately necessitated amputation. This injury was attributed to a breeding attempt that went tragically wrong. The USDA’s veterinary medical officer, Danisha Bullock, reported that Petra and a male leopard were housed in separate enclosures but were placed in proximity for breeding purposes. Due to a gap at the bottom of a dividing door, Petra was able to reach into the male’s enclosure, leading to an attack that caused her horrific injury.
Financial Exploitation of Animals
Animal rights advocates have raised concerns that ZWF priorit
