Naturewatch has always been disgusted by the poor management and lack of acceptable care for animals at Kyiv Zoo. Despite several meetings over the years, lobbying by Kyiv SPA "SOS" at various stages and the involvement of EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria), it's very disappointing, though unsurprising, that nothing much has changed. The latest report from Kyiv is absolutely tragic.
In 2006, 130 animals died and already this year 40 animals have perished. Some have died from illnesses, although many could have been prevented and some successfully treated. Others have died from indifference and cruelty by zoo employees. Kyiv Zoo is a Full member of EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquaria) and Naturewatch will be sending its report to the Directors of EAZA requesting a full investigation into the management of the zoo and level of care of the animals. We will be urging EAZA to withdraw Kyiv Zoo’s membership. Although the Mayor of Kyiv is currently investigating complaints, no action has yet been forthcoming.
It has been brought to our attention that:
- Director Holovin used rubber bullets to force a young female bear into the cage of the old female bear. The older bear tried to tear the young bear apart.
- The same director put his hunting dog into the enclosure of a fox for “training” and the fox was attacked and killed.
- In the evenings, Kyiv Zoo has loud
music, fast food and fireworks to 'entertain' visitors – as a result animals have died from heart attacks.
Here is the official image of Kyiv Zoo (images from Kyiv Zoo website) |
