Michoacán authorities rescue Bengal tigers and spider monkey

Authorities in Michoacán, Mexico, have rescued several exotic animals following operations targeting illegal wildlife possession and animal cruelty.

In Coalcomán, members of the Mexican Army, National Guard, and Navy discovered two Bengal tigers abandoned in substandard conditions. The animals, a two-year-old female and an eight-month-old male, were found in makeshift enclosures made of chain-link fencing and sheet metal. Specialists reported the tigers suffered from obesity, dehydration, and repetitive stress behaviors. Following a precautionary seizure by Profepa and the FGR, the tigers were transferred to a wildlife management unit in Morelia for specialized medical care.

In a separate operation in Múgica, the State Attorney General's Office rescued an adult male spider monkey from a residence in Nueva Italia. The primate was found restrained by a collar and leash without adequate food or water. Veterinary assessments revealed skin lesions and signs of human imprinting. The monkey has been placed under the care of the Morelia Zoo for observation and rehabilitation.