WILLEMSTAD - The Department of Veterinary Affairs (Uitvoeringsorgaan Veterinaire Zaken) has temporarily taken over management of the Curaçao Zoo following shocking conditions discovered during an unannounced visit by Minister of Health, Environment, and Nature Roderick Middelhof (MFK) earlier this week.

The minister made the surprise inspection on Tuesday, where he found what he described as a “painful and unacceptable situation.” According to a spokesperson for the Ministry, there were no staff members present after 8:00 a.m., and no food available for the animals. Feed reportedly arrived only around noon — by which time several animals were found dead.

“This situation is intolerable,” Middelhof said, emphasizing that serious animal neglect and mistreatment had been observed, including goats being placed in monkey enclosures rather than in appropriate habitats. “This shows a complete lack of respect for animal welfare,” he added.

According to Middelhof, an estimated 40 animals die each month at the Curaçao Zoo under current management. The government has therefore decided not to renew its agreement with the Curaçao Zoo Foundation, which previously oversaw operations.

Instead, the Ministry will offer temporary contracts to zoo staff to ensure continuity of care and stabilize conditions while an investigation and restructuring take place.

The government is now assessing what long-term measures are needed to reorganize the zoo and improve animal welfare standards on the island.

“The Curaçao Zoo should be a place of education, recreation, and respect for nature — not a symbol of neglect,” Middelhof said.

The Ministry of Health, Environment, and Nature has pledged to restore the zoo’s integrity and ensure that animal welfare regulations are strictly enforced going forward.