Sorocaba Zoo under investigation for spectacled bear welfare

The Public Ministry of the State of São Paulo (MPSP) has launched an investigation into the living conditions of two spectacled bears, Pepito and Penélope, at the Quinzinho de Barros Municipal Zoo in Sorocaba.

Following allegations of inadequate conditions, the MPSP reported that the bears' enclosure suffers from limited space, dirtiness, lack of environmental enrichment, and poor ventilation. Additionally, reports indicate that one of the bears has been kept in containment due to skin-related issues. The MPSP has requested that the Sorocaba City Hall submit detailed reports regarding the actual conditions of the site by October 1.

In response, the Sorocaba City Hall stated through its Secretariat of Environment, Protection, and Animal Welfare (Sema) that a revitalization and restoration plan for the zoo enclosures has been established. The administration maintains that all animals are monitored by a technical team following animal welfare protocols for food, behavior, and sanitary management. If mistreatment is proven, the possibility of transferring the animals remains under consideration.