OIPA ETS has formally called on the Mexican authorities to investigate reports concerning the alleged use of cubs of wild felines and other wildlife species for tourist entertainment at Animalandia Maya, a facility located in Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
In recent weeks, OIPA has received multiple reports, testimonies, photographs, and publicly available materials describing activities that allegedly allow tourists to interact with young wild animals, including cubs of different feline species and other wildlife, often through direct contact and photo opportunities.
Information and background materials regarding this case were also shared with OIPA with the support of the Mexican animal protection organization Animal Heroes, which has been actively raising awareness about the situation.
The case involving Animalandia Maya in Playa del Carmen has generated growing international concern, with numerous citizens, visitors, and animal protection advocates sending reports and information about the alleged exploitation of wild animals for tourist entertainment.
Wildlife experts and animal welfare organizations widely warn that the use of wild animal cubs for tourist entertainment and direct interaction with visitors can expose animals to stress, improper handling, and conditions that may compromise their welfare.
According to several reports received by OIPA, some of the animals shown in the materials appear to be handled repeatedly throughout the day, even at a very young age, raising serious concerns about their welfare. In some cases, observers have also suggested that the animals may appear unusually lethargic or passive during interactions with tourists, which has raised concerns about the possible use of sedation or other practices intended to facilitate handling.
Wildlife specialists also note that facilities offering tourist interactions with cubs often separate young animals from their mothers at an early age, a practice that can have significant consequences for their development and well-being.
In light of these reports, OIPA has submitted a formal communication to the competent Mexican authorities, requesting an urgent review of the situation and an official inspection to verify the conditions in which the animals at Animalandia Maya are kept and used.
OIPA notes that the commercial use of wild animals for tourist entertainment, particularly when it involves very young individuals, raises important concerns under Mexico’s Ley General de Vida Silvestre, which regulates the management and use of wildlife.
If confirmed, the practices described in the reports may also require careful assessment under other applicable legal provisions, including the Código Penal Federal relating to crimes against wildlife, as well as Mexico’s international commitments under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).
OIPA has therefore urged the authorities to examine the situation at Animalandia Maya with due attention and transparency, and to take any necessary measures to ensure that wildlife is protected and not subjected to exploitation for commercial tourist activities.
The organization will continue to closely monitor developments in the Animalandia Maya case and reiterates its commitment to promoting the protection of wildlife and encouraging responsible and ethical tourism worldwide.