Concerns Raised Over Animal Welfare at Cambalache Wildlife Center
cambalache Wildlife Center is facing scrutiny regarding its animal welfare practices, with allegations of potential legal violations and a lack of established protocols for animal management. While center officials defend their efforts to rehabilitate and rehome rescued animals, concerns have been raised about the fate of animals that cannot be exported or placed in suitable environments.
According to statements made by a center representative, animals arriving at Cambalache coudl be legally euthanized if they cannot be successfully rehomed. Specifically, snakes, caimans, and potentially 13 young monkeys face this possibility if suitable placement isn’t found. the representative emphasized that the center employs dedicated staff committed to providing a “second life opportunity” for these animals.
However, Animal Link, an animal welfare organization, alleges that Cambalache may be violating Law 154-2008 due to “aggravated negligence and institutional abuse.” They also claim the center is potentially in breach of an agreement made with the Federal Justice Department following the closure of the Mayagüez Zoo.This agreement stipulated strict adherence to local and federal animal welfare statutes.
A key point of contention is the absence of formal protocols for managing the species received at Cambalache.A lawyer for Animal Link stated that despite ample time since previous irregularities were identified in 2023, conditions have not demonstrably improved.The lawyer emphasized that the establishment of such protocols was a condition for granting immunity to the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental resources (DRNA) and preventing further legal action.
Center officials acknowledge the lack of protocols but state they are awaiting the appointment of a biologist and veterinarian - potentially within the coming week – to develop and implement them.They also noted that any protocol must be agreed upon by the existing security staff who will be responsible for its execution.
Regarding allegations of unsanitary conditions, the center representative refuted the claims, stating that freezers are available for storing animal remains and food. They also acknowledged that the center is currently undergoing reconstruction, resulting in less-than-ideal conditions. They maintain that animals are provided with appropriate food and cage sizes.
When questioned about reports of sick and dead animals due to poor living conditions,the center representative stated that contracted veterinarians had not reported any such issues,leading them to believe these reports are unfounded.
DRNA currently receives regular animal inventory reports from Cambalache – submitted every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday – detailing the dozens of animals currently housed at the center, including snakes, birds, monkeys, and turtles.
Animal Link intends to submit its findings to the Federal Justice Department, continuing its efforts to ensure adequate animal welfare standards are maintained at Cambalache.