The recent relocation of the African elephant Kenya to the Santuario de Elefantes de Brasil represents a historic moment for Argentina, as with her departure, there are no more elephants in captivity in the country. Despite this progress, there are still exotic species in the Mendoza Ecoparque.
Although there are no immediate plans for international transfers, a comprehensive review of their situation has begun to define new strategies.
The site still houses zebras, antelopes, blackbucks, camels, primates, and deer, with a population close to 500 individuals. Current plans include responsible adoptions for specific cases under strict protocols and the improvement of housing spaces to optimize living conditions in captivity.
“Most of these species are not involved in conservation terms. However, options for relocation or seeking more suitable environments are being evaluated,” detailed Ignacio Haudet, head of Biodiversity and Mendoza Ecoparque in an interview with Los Andes portal.
## Reorganization of enclosures and adoption strategy for exotic species
Of the total of 1,120 animals still in the Ecoparque, about 500 belong to non-native species in the local environment. The term “exotic” refers to animals that do not belong to the natural ecosystem of the place or share environmental similarities with it.
Among them, deer represent the most numerous group, with over 200 specimens, divided into white deer (88), fallow deer (73), red deer (40), and axis deer (11). The latter known for inspiring Disney’s character Bambi.
In the case of fallow and red deer, where males and females still share spaces, procedures such as vasectomies and orchiectomies are being performed to prevent reproduction in confinement.
“We are reinforcing responsible adoption programs, ensuring that transfers are made with sterilized animals and in safe environments, excluded from hunting reserves, to avoid the formation of invasive populations,” explained Haudet.
Among the most prominent species, although not the majority, are 12 zebras, 16 camels, 20 blackbucks, and 16 eland antelopes, which have also been separated by sex in different enclosures to stop their reproduction.
Regarding zebras and camels, which are not part of the current adoption plans for various reasons, the focus is on adapting their facilities within the Ecoparque.
According to the director, the old Kenya enclosure is planned to be reused, creating two differentiated areas: one for camels and another for zebras, with the possibility of including a section for a condor rehabilitation center.
This space will be equipped with tubing infrastructure, keeping it functional and open for new species with specific requirements.
In addition to the permanent specimens, the Ecoparque regularly receives exotic animals rescued from operations against illegal wildlife trafficking. These animals stay temporarily on-site until being transferred to sanctuaries or reserves with the aim of reintegrating them into their natural environment.
