The Provincial Government of Las Tunas denied claims on Wednesday that one lion at the city zoo killed another to eat it. However, they acknowledged that the animals had been left unfed for several days, labeling the situation as "unacceptable."
In a statement shared on Facebook, local authorities admitted that "there's no excuse for the animals being left without food for so many days" and criticized the failure to report the issue to the appropriate channels, despite its viral spread on social media.
The government emphasized that, although the zoo isn't directly under their jurisdiction, the administration in Las Tunas is responsible for "oversight and monitoring" as the zoo is located within their territory.
Following the incident's exposure, officials stated they contacted the organization managing the zoo and requested their presence in the province to conduct "the necessary analyses and evaluations."
Efforts to Address the Crisis
Authorities also mentioned that arrangements were made with supply agencies to provide food for the lions and other animals at the facility.
The official statement specifically addressed the death of one of the two lions, a tragic event that drew harsh criticism after activists reported that the animals had gone numerous days without meat.
The government confirmed that one lion did attack and kill the other, but refuted claims that it was for the purpose of consumption.
"It's important for the public to know that the altercation between the lions, which led to one's death, occurred after they had been fed," the statement clarified.
Contrasting Accounts and Public Outcry
According to the authorities, the two lions were known to "play" together, and this interaction supposedly escalated into a fatal instinctual attack.
"The claim that it was killed for food is false, primarily because that's not what happened, and additionally, because such behavior is uncommon among lions," the Provincial Government asserted.
The official narrative diverges from earlier reports by animal welfare activists.
The government statement also acknowledged the "deterioration and impoverishment" of the zoo, noting that repairs and maintenance fall under the responsibility of the entity's own management and its ability to generate revenue as a Basic Enterprise Unit.
Led by Governor Yelenys Tornet Menéndez, the Provincial Government pledged to hold those accountable and declared that such incidents "will not be tolerated."
Following the lion's death, representatives from Animal Welfare Cuba in Las Tunas claimed the lions were unfed for around 13 days and reported that one lion attacked and fatally injured the other.
Another report suggested the animals went over 15 days without receiving meat.
Concerns about the animals' conditions had surfaced before the fatal incident. Days earlier, images revealed the two lions with visibly protruding ribs and bones, as residents and activists raised alarms about their physical decline and the poor state of the zoo.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Las Tunas Zoo Incident
Why did the two lions fight in Las Tunas Zoo?
According to the government, the lions were known to engage in play, which escalated into a fatal instinctual attack after they had been fed.
What actions are being taken by the Las Tunas government regarding this incident?
The government contacted the managing organization of the zoo to conduct evaluations and has arranged for food supplies for the animals. They also plan to hold those responsible accountable.
How long were the lions unfed before the incident?
Reports from animal activists and local authorities suggest that the lions went unfed for about 13 to over 15 days.