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Cuban Zookeepers Pedal to Save Animals From Starvation
22 Sep
Summary
- Zoo workers travel by bicycle and scooter due to severe fuel shortages.
- Rare animals like white tigers and black rhinos are at risk.
- Private donors and staff efforts are crucial for daily survival.
Staff at Cuba's National Zoo are demonstrating remarkable dedication amid a severe fuel crisis that has crippled public transportation. Zookeepers and veterinarians are resorting to bicycles and electric motorbikes to reach the zoo, located 12 miles from Havana, ensuring the daily care of nearly 1,000 animals. This commitment is crucial as the zoo houses important genetic reserves, including rare black and white rhinos, hippos, and jaguars. The crisis, exacerbated by a US fuel blockade, has forced the zoo to curtail reproduction programs and rely heavily on external aid.
The zoo's critical conservation role is jeopardized by the scarcity of meat, medicine, and consistent electricity. Recurring blackouts lasting up to 30 hours significantly impact food preservation. Animal welfare manager Yoel Machado noted that cubs, including a rare white tiger, are being rationed to conserve dwindling supplies. Private donors, like Cuban-American Ana Fernandez, are providing essential meat donations. The zoo also faced a 23-day power outage, requiring extraordinary measures to secure water and food for the animals.
Compounding these challenges, over a third of the zoo's veterinarians have departed for better-paying jobs, further straining resources. Despite these difficulties, the zoo continues to welcome new life, including recent births of tigers, hyenas, jackals, and a black dromedary named Esperanza, symbolizing hope amidst the ongoing struggles.
