ZooTampa controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2008
Safari Wild and governance controversy
An audit examined the zoo’s relationship with Safari Wild and identified questionable animal transfers, spending on private-property improvements, boarding payments, bonuses, travel charges, and use of employees. Director Lex Salisbury resigned under pressure in December 2008. A later settlement required payment and return of zoo-funded property without an admission of wrongdoing.
2006
Sumatran tiger escape
A tiger escaped through an unlocked gate into an area under renovation. The animal was killed after attempts to tranquilize it failed and it advanced toward a veterinarian. The incident triggered criticism of zoo procedures.
1993
Fatal Asian elephant incident
A 24-year-old trainer was crushed and killed by an Asian elephant. The zoo moved both elephants two weeks later and did not return elephants to the facility for approximately ten years.