Recent social media outcries regarding the poor condition of animals at Camagüey's Casino Campestre Zoo have prompted an immediate reaction from zoo authorities. In response, measures such as enhanced surveillance, restricted access to certain areas, and urgent cage cleaning and repair efforts have been implemented.
A reporter from Cubanet, who visited the zoo under anonymity for safety reasons, confirmed the visible changes that have been directly linked to the public's social media pressure.
According to this source, the visit occurred after the recent complaints, and the reporter observed a flurry of activity involving cleaning and feeding of the animals. Numerous workers were seen sweeping the grounds and supplying food and water to various enclosures.
Conditions Prompting Social Media Criticism
During the visit, the reporter also noted the dilapidated conditions that had sparked the online backlash. Several species, she reported, showed clear signs of neglect.
"The hyenas are thin, and the monkey cages were filled with excrement," she described, highlighting an environment where some facilities appeared rundown yet were being attended to for cleaning and repair.
The reporter also mentioned seeing animals like peacocks, zebras, and a crocodile housed in severely deteriorated enclosures.
Restricted Access and Heightened Security Measures
Access to specific zoo areas was limited. The reporter was restricted from approaching the lion cages due to a significant security presence within the park.
She noted a constant surveillance over visitors, particularly those using mobile phones, suggesting that zoo staff were keen on preventing recordings or photos that could be shared on social media amid the controversy over animal welfare.
The images circulating online depicted lions with prominently visible ribs and hip bones, sparking widespread public outrage.
Zoo's Official Response
In light of the criticism, the zoo director insisted that the animals were adequately fed and not starving, dismissing the accusations as manipulation and slander.
"Following the posting of images showing the lions in such an emaciated state, changes have been noticeable. I hear people on the street saying the lions were almost skeletal. When I visited, things had improved; a significant number of sweepers were cleaning the entire zoo, feeding the animals, and providing water," the reporter recounted.
Historical Context of Animal Mistreatment
This incident is not unprecedented. In December 2025, reports surfaced of a lion at the Florida municipal zoo that had not been fed for eight days. Similar issues have been noted in other provinces, such as widespread neglect and hunger at Puerto Padre Zoo, or instances where felines at Santiago de Cuba Zoo were fed leftovers.
Understanding the Impact of Social Media on Zoo Conditions
How did social media influence the response at Camagüey Zoo?
The public outcry on social media led to immediate action from zoo authorities, including increased surveillance and urgent maintenance work, demonstrating the power of digital platforms in prompting institutional change.
What measures were taken by the zoo in response to the complaints?
In response to the complaints, the zoo increased surveillance, limited access to certain areas, and undertook immediate cleaning and repair of animal enclosures.