Over two dozen animals were removed from the SeaQuest aquarium and zoo in Woodbridge, New Jersey on February 27, following years of abuse allegations and an extensive state investigation, as reported by NJ.com.
The investigation revealed multiple violations, including improper enclosures, veterinary records, and even instances of animals missing limbs.
The state has received over 3,500 complaints alleging violations at SeaQuest Woodbridge. In September 2023, the facility was placed on probation for one year, which was later extended due to SeaQuest’s failure to correct the issues.
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s Fish and Wildlife Division removed the animals. While the specific animals retrieved were not specified, the investigation listed numerous animals, including a rose-breasted cockatoo, a Linnaeus’s two-toed sloth, giant day geckos, a panther chameleon, and more.
“The animals that were removed are regulated under the Endangered and Nongame Species Conservation Act and the Exotic and Nongame Wildlife Regulations, and includes several mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians,” New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Spokeswoman Caryn Shinske said.
Despite revoking two of SeaQuest’s exotic and non-game permits, not all of the animals could be confiscated, and the Woodbridge Mall facility is allowed to remain open. On the day the animals were removed, SeaQuest stated it was “closed for renovations” but appeared to resume operations the next day.
SeaQuest’s parent company filed for bankruptcy in December, and locations in states like Minnesota and Texas have closed, indicating the potential for the Woodbridge location to close as well.
Lady Freethinker commends the state for removing the animals from this facility. We hope these closures continue, leading to the complete shutdown of SeaQuest and allowing these wild animals to live the rest of their natural lives free from suffering.
