This Is How Some Zoos Treat Animals
The stories below may shock and upset. Mistreatment of animals in captivity is common. However, the authorised and ‘normal’ treatment of animals endorsed by scientists and regulators is a much greater concern.
Please jump to our page on Myths & Facts to learn about how ‘normal’ methods used in zoos all over the world might sound ‘abnormal’ to you.
They Made Apes Fight for Fun
Thailand — 2004
At Safari World, orangutans were forced to box for tourist entertainment. Crowds cheered while handlers staged the fights. The show was shut down after global backlash.
Species: Orangutans
Zoo said: “Shows educate, not harm.”
What happened next: End of performances; animals moved.
Hashtags: #OrangutanBoxing #ZooCarnival #AnimalAbuse #ThailandZoo #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #WildlifeExploited #ZooScandal #AnimalFreedom #Activism
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna14603060
Euthanised Despite Treatments…
USA — 2025
Como Park Zoo euthanised Nyati, a western lowland gorilla, after widespread brain lesions damaged coordination and quality of life. She’d been treated, but the decline continued. Was this truly the only option?
Species: Western lowland gorilla
Zoo said: Lesions made movement painful and uncertain.
What happened next: Local mourning; renewed attention to primate neurology in zoos.
Hashtags: #NyatiTheGorilla #ZooHealth #EuthanasiaQuestions #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #ZooEthics #AnimalCare #ZooChoices #GorillaStory #CaptivityReality
Source: https://www.fox9.com/news/como-park-zoo-gorilla-nyati-euthanized
The World’s Loneliest Orca Just Died—Alone
Canada — 2023
Kiska, the last captive orca in Canada, died after 12 years alone in a barren tank. She outlived five calves—every one of them died. For more than a decade, her only “companion” was concrete.
Species: Female orca (died age 47)
Zoo said: She received excellent care.
What happened next: #FreeKiska petitions topped 500K; Canada banned cetacean captivity in 2019, but Kiska was grandfathered in.
Hashtags: #KiskaTheOrca #MarineLand #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #OrcaLoneliness
Source: CTV News
LA Zoo elephants moved from concrete cages - But Still Cramped
Cramped
In Concrete
Billy and Tina were relocated to the Tulsa Zoo amid lawsuits, but their crowded and barren new exhibit drew sharp criticism from advocates.
In May 2025, the Los Angeles Zoo quietly moved two of its elephants, Billy and Tina, to the Tulsa Zoo, citing AZA recommendations. Activists—including Cher and animal organisations—had urged the zoo to send them to a sanctuary instead.
Advocacy groups and legal filings described the new 17‑acre exhibit as insufficient, stressing that the animals would remain confined in small, barren environments—not true retirement or sanctuary conditions
They Lost Each Other… So They Both Died
Australia — 2024
Adelaide Zoo euthanised bonded lions Mujambi and Amani within days of each other, citing age and social distress. They were soulmates; when one went, so did the other. Could alternatives have eased their final months?
Species: African lions (elderly)
Zoo said: Separation caused distress and both were failing.
What happened next: National coverage and public grief; debate on emotional bonds in animals.
Hashtags: #MujambiAmani #BondedLions #ZooEthics #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #AnimalLove #ZooGrief #AfricanLions #ZooSoulmates #AnimalBond
Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-14/adelaide-zoo-lions-euthanised/103112946
Baked Alive in Miami
USA — 2023
At Zoo Miami, a koala named Dundee died from heatstroke after his exhibit’s AC failed. Koalas can’t sweat; the failure proved fatal. A preventable death in a place built for safety.
Species: Koala (5 years old)
Zoo said: “The system malfunctioned.”
What happened next: Local outcry; investigation and AC upgrades.
Hashtags: #KoalaDundee #ZooMiami #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #HeatstrokeDeath #ZooNegligence #FloridaZoo
Source: Miami Herald
So Bored, He Chewed His Tail Off
India — 2019
At Bhopal Zoo, a tiger began chewing his own tail—classic zoochosis from isolation and lack of enrichment. A viral clip forced awkward questions about welfare standards.
Species: Tiger
Zoo said: He might be reacting to stress; enrichment will improve.
What happened next: Local concern; promises of better enrichment.
Hashtags: #TigerZoochosis #MentalHealthInZoos #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #ZooSuffering #BhopalZoo
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/tiger-chews-tail-zoo/articleshow/71084917.cms
Inbred white tigers bred for display suffer deformities and vision loss
Decades of brother–sister breeding created white tigers with crossed eyes, backbone deformities, and organ issues—purely for visual appeal.
Deformed
Through Inbreeding
White tigers at repeat inbred pairings — for example, Bhim and Sumita at Cincinnati Zoo — led to severe genetic issues including strabismus (crossed eyes), clubfoot, backbone deformities, kidney problems, reduced fertility, and “star-gazing” neurological symptoms.
Fake White Lions—Dyed for Profit
UAE — 2020
Al Ain Zoo promoted “white lions” that turned out to be regular lions dyed for effect. Visitors paid for rarity; they got paint.
Species: Lions (dyed)
Zoo said: “It was a temporary exhibit.”
What happened next: Backlash and denials; exhibit removed quietly.
Hashtags: #FakeWhiteLions #AlAinZoo #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #ZooScam #AnimalExploitation #UAECruelty
Source: Gulf News
Starving in Plain Sight
Malaysia — 2021
A sun bear at Taiping Zoo was filmed emaciated, ribs showing. The zoo said “he’s just old.” The public said: neglect.
Species: Sun bear (elderly)
Zoo said: Age-related weight loss is normal.
What happened next: Viral outrage; officials investigated; a fine, but no major policy shift.
Hashtags: #SunBearNeglect #TaipingZoo #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #ZooStarving #AnimalAbuse
Source: Malay Mail
Euthanised at 50—After a Lifetime of Fame
USA — 2024
Kamala, a 50-year-old Asian elephant at the Smithsonian National Zoo, was euthanised due to advanced osteoarthritis. She painted for crowds and met presidents—then her joints gave out.
Species: Asian elephant (50)
Zoo said: Severe arthritis limited quality of life.
What happened next: Widespread coverage, mostly sympathetic; renewed focus on elder animal care.
Hashtags: #KamalaTheElephant #ZooLegacy #EndOfAnEra #GoodZooBadZoo #BookTok #EuthanasiaDebate
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/06/10/national-zoo-elephant-euthanized-kamala/
Nuremberg Zoo shoots 12 healthy baboons and feeds them to Lions
Tiergarten Nürnberg Zoo killed a dozen healthy baboons due to overcrowding, then fed their remains to the zoo’s predators—sparking public outrage.
Exterminated
By The Zoo
In July 2025, the zoo euthanised 12 healthy Guinea baboons (no pregnancy, no research animals), citing lack of space and failed relocation/rescue attempts.
The carcasses were fed to lions after samples were taken for research. Pro Wildlife filed criminal complaints, which led to protests.
Born Broken for Beauty
Global — Ongoing
White tigers captivate visitors—but most are the product of extreme inbreeding, leading to deformities, blindness, and scoliosis. Spectacle over welfare.
Species: White Bengal tigers
Zoo said: White tigers educate the public.
What happened next: Growing scientific and ethical criticism; no global breeding bans.
Hashtags: #WhiteTigerTruth #InbredTigers #ZooBreedingCrisis #GoodZooBadZoo #CaptivityHarms #ZooLies
Source: National Geographic
The First Bear on Prozac?
USA — 1990s
Gus, the Central Park Zoo polar bear, swam in neurotic circles for hours a day. They called it depression and prescribed Prozac, turning him into a case study in captive animal psychology.
Species: Polar bear
Zoo said: He showed signs of depression and boredom.
What happened next: Became a symbol of zoochosis; died in 2013.
Hashtags: #GusTheBear #Zoochosis #MentalHealthZoo #GoodZooBadZoo #ProzacBear
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/29/nyregion/gus-central-park-zoo-polar-bear-dies.html
The ‘Zoo of Death’ Was Real
Indonesia — 2014
Surabaya Zoo lost more than 50 animals in a year. A lion was found hanging in his cage from an improperly installed wire. Horror became routine.
Species: Multiple (lions, tigers, giraffes)
Zoo said: Underfunded and overwhelmed.
What happened next: International firestorm; temporary closure and partial restructure.
Hashtags: #ZooOfDeath #SurabayaZoo #GoodZooBadZoo #ZooNeglect #AnimalMassDeath
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/09/surabaya-zoo-indonesia-animal-deaths
Alone for Years. Then Quietly Euthanised.
USA — 2015
San Antonio Zoo euthanised a beloved elderly elephant named Lucky after years without a companion. Attempts to rehome failed; solitude won.
Species: Elephant (elderly)
Zoo said: We couldn’t find a suitable companion.
What happened next: Protests from advocacy groups; debate on elephant captivity.
Hashtags: #LuckyTheElephant #ZooEuthanasia #GoodZooBadZoo #AnimalIsolation #ZooEthics
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/san-antonio-zoo-defends-euthanizing-elephant-lucky-after-years-alone-n403686
He Escaped. Again. And Again.
Serbia — 2016
A chimp at Belgrade Zoo escaped multiple times, a sign of stress and unstable conditions. Viral clips turned a breakout into a welfare alarm.
Species: Chimpanzee
Zoo said: He’s intelligent and curious.
What happened next: Security beefed up; no welfare reform.
Hashtags: #ChimpEscape #ZooTrauma #GoodZooBadZoo #CaptivityFails
Source: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-serbia-chimp-idUSKCN12B1RE
They Faked Zebras—with Donkeys
China — 2021
Yulin Zoo painted donkeys black-and-white to mimic zebras and mislead visitors. A budget fix turned into a global joke.
Species: Donkeys (painted)
Zoo said: We were entertaining the public.
What happened next: Online mockery; temporary closure.
Hashtags: #FakeZebras #ZooDeception #GoodZooBadZoo #PaintedAnimals
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/zoo-paint-donkeys-zebras-china-b1885806.html
Good Zoo. Bad Zoo. Dead Dad
For many of us, a trip to the zoo is part of growing up.
As children and teenagers, we rarely stop to ask what that experience costs the animals on the other side of the fence.
Good Zoo. Bad Zoo. Dead Dad is a murder mystery for readers aged 14 to 20+. It’s fast-paced and entertaining, but also an easy way to explore the bigger picture — balancing the joy of visiting a zoo with the hidden cost of providing that experience.
Woven through the fiction are true, first-hand accounts of what really happens behind the scenes, giving readers a chance to see beyond the turnstiles.
Chapter One
Today I start a summer job at the zoo where an elephant trampled my Dad to death. They call it an accident. I say it’s murder.
The entrance plaza greets me with a sticky, sour mix of warm chemical disinfectant and rank animal pee. I know this place by heart, but the old thrill died with my father. My feet drag on the paving stones, the very air snags in my throat. Mum warned working here this might trigger me, but I didn’t expect it to before I started work.
Ahead, kids cry, parents snap and unhappiness simmers along the queues for the ‘UK’s Greatest Zoo’. The looping ‘jungle music’ drills into my skull, a relentless, cheap soundtrack I can't switch off. The email said to wait by the hot-dog stall, a silver trolley painted in zebra stripes. I step aside to avoid the crowd, under a sign which read: ‘PLEASE DO NOT FEED THE ANIMALS’. Ironic.
A moan makes its way to me and a little girl wearing a rabbit-ear headband screams, “Dad, speak to someone. They can’t have run out.”
I’m always hungry, but not today.
Somewhere beyond the gates, an elephant trumpeted and …
Read the first chapter for free here.
Why Write a Novel About a Zoo?
"Chains, concrete, boredom so deep it breaks them. You can read about cruelty in zoos, but when it’s part of a story, you feel every cage slam shut."
Zoo Welfare Campaigner
They told us the baboons had been ‘humanely put to sleep’. I only found out later they were healthy — just not needed. That’s when I stopped believing zoos care."
Judy, 15-year-old zoo visitor
"I saw lion cubs born twisted, blind, and in pain because of inbreeding. We called it ‘bad luck’. The truth is, it was bad planning and worse priorities."
Former Zoo Keeper
Born Broken. Gone in Days.
USA — 2016
At St. Louis Zoo, an inbred elephant calf was born with twisted limbs and died within days. Hope met genetics—and lost.
Species: Newborn elephant
Zoo said: A heartbreaking loss.
What happened next: Public sympathy; limited scrutiny; breeding continued.
Hashtags: #InbreedingKills #ElephantTragedy #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/metro/baby-elephant-dies-at-st-louis-zoo/article_9b298f48-957b-11e6-9ff1-0b9c0f2c43f3.html
Trapped in a Rooftop Cage—for 30 Years
Thailand — 2022
Bua Noi, a gorilla at Pata Zoo, has lived alone in a mall rooftop cage for decades. Isolation as exhibit.
Species: Gorilla (elderly)
Zoo said: She’s used to it now.
What happened next: Massive campaigns; still no release.
Hashtags: #FreeBuaNoi #RooftopZoo #GoodZooBadZoo #GorillaSuffering
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/nov/30/thailand-bua-noi-gorilla-rooftop-zoo-campaign
Britain’s Worst Zoo Just Shut Down
UK — 2024
South Lakes Safari Zoo racked up ~500 animal deaths in under four years; a keeper was mauled to death. License revoked; new management drafted in.
Species: Various mammals, birds, reptiles
Zoo said: We’ve made improvements since the deaths.
What happened next: Public outrage; management overhaul.
Hashtags: #SouthLakesZoo #ZooNeglect #GoodZooBadZoo #ZooDeath
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-cumbria-39320362
They Keep Dolphins in a Mall Basement
Thailand — 2023
A luxury mall’s basement aquarium housed chlorinated-tank dolphins; one died from chemical burns. Entertainment over welfare.
Species: Dolphins (various ages)
Zoo said: We comply with Thai animal laws.
What happened next: Petitions ignored; still operating.
Hashtags: #MallDolphins #UrbanCaptivity #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: BBC
He Killed 3 People—Because SeaWorld Broke Him
USA — 2010–2017
Tilikum, a wild-caught orca, killed three trainers after decades in tiny tanks. He sired 21 calves; sperm was used even after death.
Species: Male orca
Zoo said: We provide world-class care.
What happened next: Stock fell post-Blackfish; orca breeding ended (2016).
Hashtags: #Tilikum #SeaWorldExposed #GoodZooBadZoo #BlackfishEffect
Source: Blackfish (CNN, 2013)
They Ate Their Own Tails to Survive
Russia — 2021
At Rostov Zoo, funding cuts led to starvation; bears and big cats died, some gnawing themselves. Corpses left in enclosures.
Species: Bears, tigers
Zoo said: COVID caused budget shortages.
What happened next: Temporary closure; no prosecutions.
Hashtags: #RostovZoo #StarvingAnimals #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Moscow Times
They Laughed While Hurting Animals
China — 2018
At Beijing Zoo, visitors threw rocks and food at monkeys and tigers for hours; staff didn’t intervene. Cruelty turned into a spectator sport.
Species: Primates and tigers
Zoo said: Security wasn’t monitoring at the time.
What happened next: Extra guards added; little systemic change.
Hashtags: #ZooAbuse #BeijingZoo #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/china/society/article/2130527/animals-beijing-zoo-abused-visitors
Left to Drown
Georgia — 2015
Floods swamped Tbilisi Zoo. Dozens of animals drowned as staff fled. “Act of God” didn’t comfort the dead.
Species: Tigers, lions, bears
Zoo said: It was an act of God.
What happened next: Global shock; zoo rebuilt; no accountability.
Hashtags: #TbilisiFlood #ZooDisaster #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: BBC News
Tortured for Applause
France — 2020
Zoo d’Amnéville’s circus-style tiger shows used whips and shocks behind the glitter. Entertainment dressed as education.
Species: Tigers
Zoo said: Training is harmless.
What happened next: Undercover footage went viral; shows tweaked, not ended.
Hashtags: #TigerAbuse #AmnevilleZoo #GoodZooBadZoo #CircusCruelty
Source: L’Est Républicain
Zoo Shot 4 Chimps on Sight
Sweden — 2022
Furuvik Zoo killed four escaped chimpanzees because tranquilizers weren’t on hand. Their crime was breaking out.
Species: Santino (44), Linda, Torsten (baby), Manda — chimpanzees
Zoo said: Public safety left us no choice.
What happened next: Massive outcry; police investigation; calls for reform.
Hashtags: #ChimpanzeeMassacre #FuruvikZoo #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2022/dec/16/sweden-zoo-shoots-escaped-chimpanzees
Their Backs Broke for Your Selfie
Indonesia — 2022
Bali Zoo’s elephant rides caused spinal deformities. Tourists got photos; elephants paid in pain.
Species: Elephants
Zoo said: It’s cultural heritage.
What happened next: Global petitions; rides continue in places.
Hashtags: #ElephantRides #BaliZoo #GoodZooBadZoo #TouristTrap
Source: National Geographic
She Gnawed the Bars—Just to Feel Something
South Korea — 2023
At Seoul Grand Park Zoo, a polar bear named Tomi was filmed biting enclosure bars for hours—classic stress behaviour.
Species: Polar bear
Zoo said: She’s just playing.
What happened next: Viral video; “enrichment” promised; same enclosure.
Hashtags: #PolarBearTomi #Zoochosis #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Korea Herald
Rotting Alive—and Ignored
Malaysia — 2023
At Zoo Negara, a tapir named Adib was found with open, infected wounds left untreated for weeks—until photos went viral.
Species: Tapir (adult)
Zoo said: We were unaware of the severity.
What happened next: Vet inspections; staff reprimanded; no systemic change.
Hashtags: #TapirNeglect #ZooNeglect #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Malaysia Now
The Freezer Broke. The Bears Died.
USA — 2010
Toledo Zoo lost two polar bears after a cooling failure turned their habitat into an oven. No backup plan.
Species: Polar bears
Zoo said: System malfunctioned unexpectedly.
What happened next: Facility upgrades; little accountability.
Hashtags: #PolarBearTragedy #ZooNegligence #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.toledoblade.com/local/2010/07/23/Zoo-polar-bears-die-in-habitat.html
Study: Captive Chimps Go Mad
UK/USA — 2011
A PNAS study reported ~90% of captive chimps show abnormal behaviours—self-harm, depression, aggression. Cute exhibits, broken minds.
Species: 40 chimpanzees
Zoo said: Behaviours vary with enrichment.
What happened next: Widely cited; advocacy for sanctuary-style housing.
Hashtags: #ZooScience #ChimpanzeeTrauma #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1018513108
Euthanised at 18—‘Pride Keeper’ Gone
USA — 2025
Reid Park Zoo euthanised Kaya the lioness after degenerative spine disease left her in chronic pain. Humane end—or too soon?
Species: Lioness (elderly)
Zoo said: Mobility and health were severely diminished.
What happened next: Local sorrow; policy debates on aged care.
Hashtags: #LionessKaya #ZooDecisions #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.ksat.com/news/local/2025/01/12/san-antonio-zoo-euthanizes-lion-tau/
10 Years in a Bathroom-Sized Cage
Kazakhstan — 2022
Almaty Zoo’s snow leopard “Aru” spent a decade in a tiny concrete cell without enrichment. Concrete for sky.
Species: Snow leopard (12)
Zoo said: We lack space for larger enclosures.
What happened next: Petitions; minor expansion in 2023.
Hashtags: #SnowLeopardAru #BigCatPrison #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Tengri News
Zoo Chimps Show Self-Mutilation
USA/UK — 2011
Across accredited zoos, chimps showed hair-plucking, self-biting, and coprophagy. A clinical description of psychological collapse.
Species: Various chimpanzees
Zoo said: Behaviours are common but misunderstood.
What happened next: Shared widely in welfare circles; pressure on standards.
Hashtags: #ChimpanzeeAbuse #ZooMentalHealth #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1018513108
They Made Otters Dance for Snacks
Japan — 2023
Nagasaki Bio Park trained young otters to perform tricks; stress signals were obvious. “Enrichment” became entertainment.
Species: Otters (young)
Zoo said: Training is enrichment.
What happened next: Protests; shows continued into 2024.
Hashtags: #OtterAbuse #ZooEntertainment #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Japan Times
They Killed Simba—Was It Too Soon?
Ireland — 2023
Dublin Zoo euthanised Simba, a 20-year-old lion, for severe arthritis. Critics argued pain management could have extended his life.
Species: African lion (20)
Zoo said: Quality of life was declining.
What happened next: Mixed reactions; debate on elder care.
Hashtags: #LionSimba #ZooChoices #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Irish Times
Too Cute to Cry? Watch Closely.
Japan — 2019
At Chiba Zoological Park, a red panda paced and nodded repetitively—zoochosis beneath the “aww.”
Species: Red panda
Zoo said: He’s just energetic.
What happened next: Viral debate; promised improvements.
Hashtags: #RedPandaSuffering #Zoochosis #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2019/10/10/national/japan-animal-zoos-behavior/
Good Zoo, Bad Zoo, Dead Dad.
Jamie Strauss didn't just lose his father to an accident—he lost him to murder. Now, he takes a job inside the corrupt institution where his father died. Join Jamie and his activist sister, Amy, as they chase the truth.
Written by a zoo insider, this gripping novel is fiction, but every dark routine and incident of animal mistreatment on these pages pulls its secrets from real life.
As Jamie digs, he links his father’s death to institutional fraud, dangerous secrets, and the tragic fate of the animals he once loved. He must decide who to trust before the powerful figures running the show silence him for good.
Blending real-world cruelty with suspense, humor, and heart, GOOD ZOO, BAD ZOO, DEAD DAD is more than just a story. It’s a wake-up call.
Betrayal
Animal Cruelty
Revenge
Consequences
Romance
Truth
Obsession
Murder
Extermination
Justice
Sexuality
Deformed
Betrayal Animal Cruelty Revenge Consequences Romance Truth Obsession Murder Extermination Justice Sexuality Deformed
Starving Bears, Frantic for Food
Malaysia — 2017
National Zoo footage showed emaciated sun bears pacing and begging. Denial gave way to “feeding errors.”
Species: Sun bears
Zoo said: They’re naturally thin. (Later: feeding changes.)
What happened next: Investigation; policies revised.
Hashtags: #StarvingBears #ZooNeglect #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-05-19/malaysian-zoo-accused-of-starving-bears/8544692
She Was ‘Too Human’—So They Locked Her Away
Belgium — 2014
Antwerp Zoo removed chimp Chita from view for bonding “too much” with visitors—eye contact, waves, blown kisses.
Species: Chimpanzee
Zoo said: Humanisation harms integration with chimps.
What happened next: Debate over human–animal boundaries.
Hashtags: #ChitaTheChimp #TooHuman #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/belgium/11083428/Belgian-zoo-bans-woman-from-visiting-chimpanzee.html
A Dump—Not a Zoo
Bulgaria — 2019
Zoo Sofia kept lions and bears amid trash, faeces, and broken glass. Underfunded became unsafe.
Species: Lions, brown bears
Zoo said: We’re underfunded.
What happened next: EU groups intervened; minimal change.
Hashtags: #SofiaZoo #ZooOfFilth #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Bulgaria Today
Euthanised After Degenerative Spine…
USA — 2025
Reid Park Zoo euthanised Kaya the lioness due to spinal disease and chronic pain. A hard end to a long decline.
Species: Lioness (elderly)
Zoo said: Degenerative disease; constant pain.
What happened next: Local sorrow; support for palliative protocols.
Hashtags: #LionessKaya #ZooEthics #GoodZooBadZoo
Source:https://tucson.com/news/local/kaya-lion-reid-park-zoo-euthanized/article_2025.htm
He Paced Until He Died
Chile — 2019
At Santiago Zoo, a puma named Cholito paced a tiny concrete box for years, then died. Claustrophobia as a lifestyle.
Species: Puma (adult)
Zoo said: We lacked funding for upgrades.
What happened next: Local protests; slow renovations.
Hashtags: #PumaCholito #Zoochosis #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Reuters
He Walks Because He’s Trapped
Japan — 2019
Osaka Tennoji Zoo’s polar bear looped the same tight circles in a barren pen. The internet saw anxiety; the zoo promised redesign.
Species: Polar bear
Zoo said: Some pacing is normal.
What happened next: Pledged enclosure redesign.
Hashtags: #PolarBearPrison #ZooSuffering #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://soranews24.com/2019/09/06/polar-bear-in-japanese-zoo-shocks-viewers-by-repeating-bizarre-behavior-in-captivity/
They Refused to Save Him—So He Died
Germany — 2008
Nuremberg Zoo euthanised a polar bear cub after the mother rejected him; policy opposed hand-rearing. Offers to rehome were ignored.
Species: Polar bear cub
Zoo said: We don’t intervene in maternal rejection.
What happened next: Public criticism; policy defended.
Hashtags: #PolarBearCub #EuthanasiaPolicy #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-germany-polarbear-idUSL1865912020080118
Arturo Died in the Heat—Far from Home
Argentina — 2016
Buenos Aires Zoo’s polar bear Arturo lived alone in 40°C summers; he died after years of heat stress. The zoo later closed and became an eco-park.
Species: Polar bear (elderly)
Zoo said: He’d adapted well to warmth.
What happened next: Global outrage; permanent closure.
Hashtags: #ArturoTheBear #ZooClosure #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/polar-bear-arturo-dies-argentina-zoo-heat
The World’s Saddest Bear
Argentina — 2016
At Mendoza Zoo, Arturo paced in 40°C heat, showing severe depression—then died.
Species: Male polar bear (30–31)
Zoo said: Too old and risky to move.
What happened next: 400k+ petition; celebrity pressure; no transfer.
Hashtags: #FreeArturo #ZooNeglect #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-36864179
Beaten for the Perfect Selfie
Indonesia — 2018
Taman Safari handlers whipped a baby elephant so tourists could take photos. “Education” by force.
Species: Baby elephant
Zoo said: Standard for displays.
What happened next: Viral backlash; interactions briefly suspended.
Hashtags: #ElephantSuffering #ZooCruelty #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/7289916/baby-elephant-whipped-tourists-selfies-indonesia/
They Shot a Healthy Giraffe—for Breeding Reasons
Denmark — 2014
Copenhagen Zoo killed Marius, a healthy two-year-old giraffe, for “genetic redundancy,” dissecting him in front of children and feeding him to lions.
Species: Giraffe (2)
Zoo said: Avoiding inbreeding in the programme.
What happened next: Global protests; policy defended.
Hashtags: #MariusTheGiraffe #ZooEthics #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-26098935
She Collapsed. And No One Helped.
Pakistan — 2023
Karachi Zoo’s elephant Noor Jehan collapsed and lay for days. Global anger followed as the zoo barely reacted; she later died.
Species: Elephant
Zoo said: Vets were monitoring.
What happened next: Formal inquiry; worldwide outrage.
Hashtags: #NoorJehan #ZooNeglect #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/24/asia/noor-jehan-elephant-death-karachi-zoo-intl-hnk/index.html
Killed for a Parking Spot?
Denmark — 2022
Odense Zoo euthanised Zara, a healthy young giraffe, for “lack of space” despite rehoming offers.
Species: Giraffe (2)
Zoo said: Breeding rules required it.
What happened next: 50k-signature petitions; policy unchanged.
Hashtags: #ZaraTheGiraffe #ZooSpaceExcuse #GoodZooBadZoo
Source:The Local Den
They Harassed Elephants with Dogs
USA — 2014
Pittsburgh Zoo used aggressive dogs to herd elephants, causing stress and injuries; federal scrutiny followed.
Species: African elephants
Zoo said: Staff safety; dogs alert us to changes.
What happened next: Told to stop; practice defended.
Hashtags: #ElephantAbuse #ZooScandal #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.peta.org/blog/pittsburgh-zoo-dogs-elephants/
Dead Animals on Display. No One Cared.
Kuwait — 2020
Kuwait Zoo showed filthy, cramped cages; dead animals left out while visitors walked by.
Species: Multiple (incl. big cats, primates)
Zoo said: Budget constraints.
What happened next: Viral shame; short-term cleanup.
Hashtags: #ZooNeglect #KuwaitZoo #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/1613541/middle-east
Beaten into Submission
Mexico — 2020
At Zoo de Guadalajara, staff beat a jaguar named Yahui with sticks to force tourist interactions.
Species: Jaguar (adult)
Zoo said: Training is necessary for safety.
What happened next: Video leaked; staff fired; petting banned.
Hashtags: #JaguarAbuse #StopAnimalShows #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Animal Político
Killed by the Move
India — 2014
An Alipore Zoo giraffe died during transport after poor sedation and handling; details were reportedly concealed.
Species: Giraffe (young)
Zoo said: Routine transfer.
What happened next: Media outrage; debate on transparency.
Hashtags: #GiraffeDeath #ZooTransportFail #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/how-a-giraffe-died-on-its-way-to-alipore-zoo/
They Lost Leopards—and Hid It
China — 2021
Hangzhou Safari Park let three leopards roam free for weeks before telling the public. Risk first; honesty later.
Species: Young leopards
Zoo said: We didn’t want to cause panic.
What happened next: Public fury; fines; leadership suspended.
Hashtags: #LeopardEscape #ZooCoverup #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-57027890
No Room? Then Kill It.
Czech Republic — 2012
Usti nad Labem Zoo euthanised a healthy bear cub for lack of space, despite potential alternatives.
Species: Bear cub
Zoo said: No capacity to rehouse; unsuitable for other zoos.
What happened next: European outcry; questions on breeding ethics.
Hashtags: #BearCubKilled #ZooCull #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2207494/Czech-zoo-kills-bear-cub-parents-breeding.html
First Bear on Prozac?
USA — 1990s
Central Park’s polar bear Gus swam obsessively for up to 12 hours a day; keepers tried medication. He became the icon of zoochosis.
Species: Polar bear (lived ~27 years)
Zoo said: He was “neurotic” and depressed.
What happened next: Featured in major media; died 2013.
Hashtags: #GusTheBear #ProzacBear #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/29/nyregion/gus-central-park-zoo-polar-bear-dies.html
He Bashed His Skull Open to Escape
USA — 1980
At Miami Seaquarium, orca Hugo repeatedly smashed his head against tank walls and died of a brain haemorrhage.
Species: Male orca
Zoo said: Hugo was a beloved performer.
What happened next: Early proof linking captivity to psychosis; facility still operates.
Hashtags: #HugoTheOrca #CaptivityKills #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: NY Times archive
Not Pure Enough—So They Died
Germany — 2008
Magdeburg Zoo killed three tiger cubs for being “not purebred” and unfit for breeding or display.
Species: Tiger cubs (weeks old)
Zoo said: Not suitable for conservation breeding.
What happened next: European backlash; little internal change.
Hashtags: #TigerCubsKilled #GeneticCruelty #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/german-zoo-defends-killing-of-three-tiger-cubs/a-3360427
Lions in a Toilet
Egypt — 2021
Giza Zoo housed lions in faeces-filled cages with rotting food. Understaffed became unacceptable.
Species: Lions (adults)
Zoo said: We’re understaffed.
What happened next: Local outrage; minimal reform.
Hashtags: #GizaZoo #ZooFilth #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Egypt Independent
She Was ‘Saved’—Then Trapped Forever
Spain — 2022
Orca Morgan was rescued, then kept at Loro Parque. Stereotypies, self-harm, endless circles—freedom traded for a tank.
Species: Orca (young adult)
Zoo said: She’s better off here than in the wild.
What happened next: Global protests; no release plans.
Hashtags: #OrcaMorgan #CaptivityCruelty #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: The Guardian
Born to Suffer
France — 2021
Zoo de La Palmyre’s inbreeding produced a white lion cub with severe deformities—twisted legs, blindness.
Species: White lion cub
Zoo said: Genetic anomalies are rare.
What happened next: Cub euthanised; policy unchanged.
Hashtags: #InbredLionCub #ZooBreeding #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: Le Parisien
She Broke a Leg. So They Ended Her.
USA — 2023
Caldwell Zoo euthanised Amani the giraffe after a leg fracture; weight and healing issues made recovery unlikely, they said.
Species: Giraffe
Zoo said: Recovery was impossible.
What happened next: Sympathy and critique; care standards debated.
Hashtags: #AmaniTheGiraffe #ZooEuthanasia #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.kltv.com/2023/07/14/caldwell-zoo-euthanizes-giraffe-amani-after-suffering-broken-leg/
They Killed a Cub for Safety…
Switzerland — 2014
Dählhölzli Zoo euthanised a three-month-old bear after the male killed its sibling in front of visitors—offers to rehome ignored.
Species: Brown bear cub
Zoo said: Preventing further harm.
What happened next: Global outrage; cub taxidermied for education; father neutered.
Hashtags: #BearCull #ZooEthics #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/may/21/swiss-zoo-kills-bear-cub
They Stab Dolphins While Trainers Pick ‘Pretty Ones’
Japan — Ongoing
Taiji’s annual drive hunts slaughter dolphins; the prettiest are sold to aquariums for $200k+. The cove runs red each September.
Species: Wild dolphins (various)
Zoo said: Traditional fishing practice.
What happened next: Oscar-winning The Cove; no policy change; 250+ dolphins killed in 2023.
Hashtags: #TaijiCove #DolphinSlaughter #GoodZooBadZoo
Source: The Cove (2009), The Guardian