Dominican zoo becomes haven for confiscated exotic animals

The only zoo in the Dominican Republic is providing refuge for illegal and smuggled animals as a government crackdown escalates. Authorities seized 188 animals last year, up from 30 in 2023, straining resources at Santo Domingo's National Zoological Park. Flamingos, often illegally taken for hotels, are the most rescued. The zoo rehabilitates animals for eventual release, but faces challenges with territorial species like crocodiles.