Zoos are often associated with conservation and education, but some fail to meet basic standards of animal welfare. Here are six of the saddest zoos in the world, known for their poor conditions:
Surabaya Zoo, Indonesia
Often called the “zoo of death,” Surabaya Zoo has faced criticism for its overcrowded cages, malnourished animals, and high mortality rates
Giza Zoo, Egypt
This once-proud zoo has deteriorated due to a lack of funding, leaving animals in cramped and dirty enclosures with inadequate medical care.
Gulshan Safari Park, Bangladesh
Known for poor conditions, this zoo has been criticized for keeping animals in small, barren cages without sufficient food or water.
Gyumri Zoo, Armenia
Often dubbed the “world’s saddest zoo,” Gyumri Zoo has only a handful of animals living in deplorable conditions, with reports of animals dying from starvation.
Taiz Zoo, Yemen
War-torn Yemen’s Taiz Zoo struggles with neglect, leaving animals without adequate care, food, or shelter, exacerbating their suffering.
Al-Qurashi Family Park Zoo, Sudan
The severe neglect that the animals at this zoo endured was brought to light by photos of starving lions that went viral and attracted attention from all over the world.
These zoos highlight the need for better animal welfare standards and more humane treatment in captivity.
ASH CK