In a significant move for wildlife conservation, Costa Rica closed its last two state-run zoos on Saturday, following an 11-year delay since the passage of a wildlife protection law. The operation saw the transfer of nearly 300 animals to a refuge, marking a pivotal step towards the country’s vision of focusing solely on sanctuaries and rescue centers.
Massive Animal Relocation to Zoo Ave
Transfer of Diverse Species
Police, veterinarians, and officials from the Ministry of Environment coordinated the relocation of animals from the Simón Bolívar Zoo, located in central San José, to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, known as Zoo Ave. The transfer included a jaguar, crocodiles, spider monkeys, a sloth, and various other species. Each animal was carefully placed into portable cages, loaded onto trucks, and escorted to their new home.
Closure of Simón Bolívar Zoo and Santa Ana Conservation Center
The closure also included the Santa Ana Conservation Center, another state-owned facility adjacent to San José. Both enclosures were managed by the FundaZoo Foundation, which had fought legal battles to maintain their concession. The government’s decision not to renew the contract, which expired on Friday, finally enabled the closure of these facilities.
Transition to Sanctuaries and Rescue Centers
Government’s Vision
Minister of Environment Franz Tattenbach highlighted the country’s transition to a new model focused on sanctuaries and rescue centers, eliminating the need for state-run zoos. “We have become a country without state zoos and with a vision towards sanctuaries and rescue centers only,” Tattenbach stated during the relocation operation at the Simón Bolívar site.
Role of Private Zoos
Despite the closure of state zoos, Costa Rica still hosts at least 18 private zoos, which remain unaffected by the new law. This distinction underscores the government’s shift towards privatization and enhanced care standards in wildlife management.
Health and Safety of Relocated Animals
Preliminary Health Assessments
Official José Pablo Vázquez from the Ministry of Environment’s conservation area noted that the health status of the zoo animals was initially unknown. Therefore, biologists and veterinarians conducted preliminary examinations of each specimen to ensure their safety and well-being before they were caged and transported.
Long-Term Care at Zoo Ave
Zoo Ave, located on the outskirts of the capital, is equipped to provide long-term care and rehabilitation for the relocated animals, ensuring they receive the necessary attention and medical care in their new environment.
Legal and Financial Context
Legal Delays
The initial plan to close the state-run zoos was set for 2014, following the approval of the wildlife protection law in 2013. However, various legal actions by FundaZoo to defend their management rights delayed the closure until the contract’s expiration in 2023.
Financial Implications
Juan Carlos Peralta, director of the NGO Association for Animal Welfare and Protection, criticized the financial burden of maintaining state zoos. “State zoos in Costa Rica make no sense. Each 10-year contract cost 1,000 million colones (almost two million dollars) to Costa Ricans,” Peralta remarked.
Future Plans for the Zoo Sites
Transformation into Green Spaces
Peralta and other conservation advocates support transforming the former Simón Bolívar Zoo site into a green lung for the city, akin to a botanical garden. This transformation aims to enhance urban green spaces and provide a natural refuge within the capital.
A New Era for Wildlife Conservation in Costa Rica
The closure of Costa Rica’s last state-run zoos marks a significant milestone in the country’s wildlife conservation efforts. By focusing on sanctuaries and rescue centers, Costa Rica is setting a new standard for animal care and environmental stewardship. The relocation of nearly 300 animals to Zoo Ave exemplifies the country’s commitment to protecting its wildlife and promoting sustainable, humane practices.
