Concern for animals in Afghanistan’s Kabul Zoo

Wild Welfare is deeply concerned with the unfolding situation in Afghanistan and in particular the capital, Kabul. We have been contacted by members of the public asking for us to help protect and rescue the animals in Kabul Zoo, a facility housing many hundreds of wild animals.

We are aware of the facility, but have not worked with them or within the country itself, but we do share people’s worries over the potential fate of the zoo’s animals in the coming weeks and months, when the country faces such uncertainty.

Wild Welfare’s acting UK director, Simon Marsh, said: “It is very sad to see such chaotic scenes from Afghanistan and our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the ongoing events.

Zoo animals can be seriously affected by political unrest in a number of ways, but we hope that this will not be the case in Kabul and that the animals and their staff remain safe.

“We will monitor the situation moving forward and work in conjunction with any of our international partners that reach out to us, giving support when possible.”

Wild Welfare works in more than ten countries worldwide, on projects that focus on ensuring wild animals living in captive facilities such as wildlife sanctuaries, zoos and aquariums receive proper care and welfare and can thrive.

UPDATE: For the latest updates from Kabul Zoo, please visit the Asia For Animals Coalition Kabul Zoo Update Page HERE.

~ENDS~

Notes to Editors:

For more information or interview requests please contact Wild Welfare on communications@wildwelfare.org

Wild Welfare is a global organisation committed to improving animal welfare for captive wild animals. By working together with animal welfare organisations and captive wildlife facilities, including zoos, aquariums and sanctuaries, we achieve long-term and sustainable solutions to the most critical issues facing wild animals in captivity.

Our vision is a world where every captive wild animal is able to thrive and live a good life. Find out more at: wildwelfare.org. Registered charity in England and Wales No.1165941.

Image © Lion in Kabul Zoo, Afghanistan, Pepe´ Cam Photography CC BY-NC 2.0