The dispute surrounding Kanelo, a young orangutan calf who lived at Barcelona Zoo, continues to unfold. Found immobile in its habitat on May 21, the animal’s veterinary team and caregivers entered the space to examine the specimen and confirmed the death.
The incident has rekindled discussions about animal welfare standards in some zoos and the appropriateness of displaying wild species in captivity. Critics argue that such animals often struggle to adapt to captivity, raising questions about the ethics and practicality of public exhibitions.
Zoo management reported that no abnormal behaviors were observed in Kanelo prior to the death. Preliminary investigations suggested respiratory distress as a possible cause. The ZOOXXI platform condemned what it described as impunity among those responsible for the zoo’s facilities, reminding that it had warned in March that orangutans were not receiving adequate care. The platform reiterated calls for the transfer of these primates to a more suitable environment.
At present, the zoo awaits analysis conducted in coordination with health authorities and the UAB Veterinary Faculty to determine the exact cause. However, events involving offspring of wild animals can occur suddenly and with little warning.
In response, ZOOXXI criticized the zoo’s management for a perceived lack of transparency, stating that the public was never informed about the incident. It also noted that renovations at the orangutan enclosure had been ongoing for more than six months, amid concerns about structural issues stemming from a recent refurbishment. The organization photographed the site in May, describing the calf as experiencing stress due to closures, construction noise, and ongoing public exposure.
Concerns were raised about the welfare of captive orangutans, with ZOOXXI arguing that signs such as hair loss could indicate significant distress. The platform urged authorities to consider the broader welfare implications and to review the conditions under which these animals are kept.
Zoo says monkeys are in ‘excellent health’
Barcelona Zoo defended its position, asserting that all orangutans are in excellent health and that welfare standards are being met. The institution highlighted ongoing studies and confirmed its commitment to animal welfare. The national agency ACN reported similar assurances from the zoo about the health of its primates.
Nevertheless, ZOOXXI stated it would escalate the matter to authorities so the causes of death could be clarified, and dismissed statements from the city council regarding the zoo’s management. The scientific coordinator of the organization, Rosi Carro, expressed disappointment over the handling of the issue.
Carro criticized the renovation plan for potentially violating municipal guidelines that prioritize living beings over public display. She claimed that the zoo’s strategic goals appeared to conflict with the principle of respecting animal welfare. The platform also referenced a national act on animal rights and welfare, suggesting that there may be a need for stronger enforcement provisions, including the option to move animals to certified shelters.
It was noted that, in the case of captive orangutans, signs of distress such as hair loss should prompt a thorough welfare review. The platform argued that immediate action might be required to address systemic issues within the zoo’s administration and its compliance with local regulations.
Barcelona Zoo has faced calls to consider resettlement options to better protect these animals and ensure they live in facilities designed for their needs. The organization proposed engaging with reputable international shelters where dialogue about relocation could begin.
They want the autopsy of the animal
The Great Ape Project has requested an autopsy conducted by independent experts in collaboration with city authorities and the zoo, to determine Kanelo’s exact cause of death. The organization questioned how regulatory norms are enforced and urged accountability for those involved in non-compliance with municipal regulations.
The NGO criticized perceived inconsistencies in how rules are applied and stressed the need for transparent investigations that involve community oversight to prevent impunity for irresponsible actions.
Experts from the Great Ape Project argued that the birth and captivity of non-human hominids should be reevaluated, pointing to a lack of independent scientific endorsement for indoor breeding programs of endangered species. They emphasised that captivity should serve conservation if accompanied by rigorous welfare standards, and that keeping primates in such settings may not justify the practice.
The City Council or the Environmental Prosecutor’s Office should consider immediate steps against those responsible for non-compliance with the 2019 Barcelona Zoo Conversion Regulations, the NGO asserted, stressing the need for clarity about the death of Kanelo and the reasons behind any attempts to conceal information.
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