National Zoo of Havana struggles to sustain endangered species

Staff at Cuba’s National Zoo are struggling to maintain the care of nearly 1,000 animals, including endangered species such as black and white rhinos, hippos, jaguars, and tigers, amid a severe national crisis. The 345-hectare park serves as a vital genetic reserve for international conservation, but resource shortages have forced the facility to curb reproduction programs and rely on donations.

Logistical challenges have intensified due to a fuel blockade that has brought public transportation to a near standstill. To ensure animals receive food and water, workers travel to the reserve via bicycle, pedal scooter, or electric motorbike.

Veterinarians are facing critical shortages of meat, medicine, and water. Angel Cordero, the veterinarian in charge of big cats, noted that he must ration food to prevent it from running out, stating that the tiger cubs ‘could be in better shape.’