Federal wildlife inspectors have cited the Zoological Wildlife Foundation (ZWF) in Miami after a clouded leopard required a leg amputation and a capybara died during failed breeding attempts, according to a USDA report.
A veterinary medical officer discovered the incidents during a March 30 inspection at the facility, which is owned by former drug trafficker Mario Tabraue.
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The inspection also revealed dilapidated housing, filthy cages, and contaminated food and water.
Breeding Attempts Lead to Severe Injuries
USDA medical officer Danisha Bullock documented that the clouded leopards were put together for breeding despite not living together.
A gap under a shared guillotine door allowed the female to reach her paw into the male's enclosure, leading to an attack that crushed her leg.
The injury required immediate amputation of the entire left leg to save the feline.
In a separate incident on New Year's Day, a female capybara was found dead after sharing an enclosure with a male for about six weeks.
The owner stated he was 100% certain the male killed the female while trying to mate.
Federal regulations require that animals housed together must be compatible and not cause discomfort or harm to each other.
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PETA Calls for Closure
PETA captive wildlife advocacy director Klayton Rutherford criticized the facility's business model, saying it chases profits at the expense of animal welfare.
Rutherford noted that injuries to animals and humans are recurring issues at ZWF and similar roadside zoos.
He alleged the facility used social media footage of the injured leopard to solicit public funds.
Rutherford argued that hands-on encounters with wild animals are a sign the business prioritizes money over animal welfare.
He pointed to recent enforcement actions against other Florida attractions, including the closure of Sloth World and Miami Seaquarium, as part of a larger problem.
Rutherford expressed cautious optimism about increased public awareness leading to meaningful regulatory changes.
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The USDA ordered immediate rectification to permanently separate incompatible animals. ZWF did not respond to requests for comment.
