Dominican Republic’s zoo offers home for confiscated animals as seizures of exotic species soar

The Dominican Republic’s sole zoo is housing confiscated illegal and smuggled animals, including crocodiles, flamingos, and tigers, as seizures of exotic species rise. Authorities seized 188 animals last year compared to 30 in 2023, with flamingos often taken illegally for hotels and private owners, sometimes with wings amputated. The zoo rehabilitates animals for release but faces capacity and funding challenges.