Animals deaths close Cambodia Zoo

PHNOM PENH - Scores of rare animals have disappeared or died at a zoo in Cambodia’s tourist hub Siem Reap, forcing authorities to close the facility and highlighting the growing problem of private animal farms.

The unreported deaths of two rare leopards at the Angkor Zoo were among the reported 50 cases that caught the attention of authorities, said Forestry Administration official Vann Sophanna.

Other animals, including birds and deer, have also vanished, he told AFP.

"Valuable and rare animals always went missing and the zoo’s owner claimed they had died, but he did not report this," Vann Sophanna said, adding that those animals left in the zoo were in cramped, dirty cages and malnourished.

"The zoo lacks hygiene, there was not enough food for the animals and there were no veterinarians," he said.

Officials say the remaining animals will be taken to a wildlife rescue centre for treatment.

Zoo owner Seng Chhoeun could not be reached for comment.

The illegal wildlife trade flourishes in Cambodia, fuelled by corrupt authorities and weak legislation.

Most of the trafficked animals feed the regional demand for exotic pets or traditional medicines, although a growing number are ending up in small private zoos throughout Cambodia.

Sapa-AFP