A recent video by Spanish activist Mario Xtrauss has ignited a firestorm of debate surrounding the conditions at the Rabat National Zoological Park, revealing alarming instances of animal distress and inadequate facility maintenance. The footage, which has rapidly gained traction on social media platforms across Morocco, raises critical questions about the zoo's commitment to animal welfare and conservation efforts.
Xtrauss's video paints a troubling picture of the zoo, showcasing numerous cases of neglect and a stark contrast between the institution's purported conservation objectives and the reality observed within its confines. Throughout his exploration of the park, the activist documented various animals enduring harsh living conditions devoid of adequate behavioral enrichment. Among the most shocking revelations was footage of an elephant visibly suffering from foot injuries and bleeding. Xtrauss lamented the situation, stating, "He is bleeding from the bottom of his foot, man. This animal is facing an infection, this is tragic. If this animal were in a Spanish zoo, there would be protests outside the door every single day."
Additionally, the video depicts a lonely chimpanzee confined to an enclosure surrounded by electrified fencing, with Xtrauss noting, "This is the only thing this chimpanzee can do in this facility. Watch time go by with nothing else to do." The footage continues to highlight a variety of concerning scenes, including a hippopotamus wallowing in filthy water mixed with decomposing materials and a spoonbill interacting with plastic waste. One particularly distressing image shows a solitary giraffe, which Xtrauss claims has been isolated for its entire life, lacking any interaction or stimulation.
Further criticism was directed at the reptile exhibits, where snakes were observed in exposed glass enclosures without any natural hiding spots. The activist emphasized that such an environment causes immense stress for the animals, as they are subjected to constant disturbances from visitors and surrounding noise. "Snakes require hiding places to feel safe, but they are completely exposed and stressed here, where every sound and step is felt," he stated.
Xtrauss also scrutinized the zoo's claims regarding biodiversity conservation and species preservation within North Africa. During his commentary, he expressed disillusionment with the disconnect between the zoo's promises of fostering local wildlife conservation and the dismal conditions he witnessed firsthand. "What we were promised is a facility capable of shaping the future of native wildlife in this nation, with conservation programs for spoonbills, gazelles, and wild cattle. What I saw today left me deeply disappointed, lack of maintenance, sad animals, and sick animals left in cages," he remarked.
In a striking contrast to the troubling conditions presented in the video, Xtrauss noted the zoo's predominantly positive online reviews, prompting him to question the genuine contributions of such facilities to wildlife conservation versus their role as mere tourist attractions. The video has resonated widely on Moroccan social media, with users expressing deep concern for the welfare of the animals and calling for immediate inspections, independent veterinary evaluations, and increased accountability from the zoo's management.
As of now, the Rabat National Zoological Park's administration has yet to issue an official response to the serious allegations and observations highlighted in Xtrauss's video.
As reported by en.hespress.com.
