The Sad Demise of Colón Zoo: Empty Cages and Decaying Structures

What Happened

The zoo in Colón, Matanzas, once a place for family recreation, now stands abandoned. A recently shared video reveals a stark scene of empty cages, overgrown vegetation, pervasive garbage, and crumbling structures within the former micro-zoo.

The images, captured by Pedro Llanes during a tour of the facilities, show the advanced state of deterioration in a place that for years welcomed local visitors. The video highlights areas consumed by weeds, heaps of refuse, and empty enclosures, painting a somber picture of neglect.

Where and When

The sad state of the Colón zoo, located in Matanzas province, Cuba, is evident as of September 20, 2026, the date the video was published. The location, which served the community for generations, is now characterized by neglect and disrepair.

The once-vibrant space is now overrun by nature, with lush vegetation reclaiming structures. The overall sensation is one of profound abandonment and a tangible sense of loss for what the facility once represented.

Why It Matters

While the sight of the abandoned zoo is distressing, the absence of animals means they are no longer subjected to the alleged dire conditions. Previous complaints detailed a severe lack of food and inadequate housing, suggesting the current state, though sorrowful, prevents further animal suffering.

This situation in Colón is emblematic of broader concerns regarding zoological institutions in Cuba. It underscores ongoing debates about animal welfare and the effectiveness of regulations designed to protect them, even as the structures themselves fall into ruin.

What Parties Say

Animal activists like Daylin Cardona of Proyecto Huellas de Amor had been raising alarms for months, submitting photographic evidence to the Ministry of Agriculture in Matanzas. They reported that closing the facility didn't immediately solve the problem, as animals remained onsite.

Activist Adriana Piña Herrera also documented the conditions for months, questioning the closure as a final solution. She detailed issues with feeding, enclosures, and animal management, including the alleged fatal infighting of two lions due to confinement conditions. These claims stem from activist reports and social media, lacking independent veterinary confirmation.

What Comes Next

The derelict Colón zoo serves as a visual testament to the decay of public facilities. It's a stark reminder of the challenges in maintaining such spaces and ensuring animal welfare standards are met.

Cuba's 2021 Decree-Law on Animal Welfare has been a point of contention, with protection groups questioning its practical application in state-run institutions. The future of such facilities remains uncertain, mirroring the visible decline of this once-cherished community spot.