United States - November 18, 2024 A shocking undercover investigation by the Humane Society of the United States has uncovered widespread abuse and neglect at SeaQuest locations in Fort Worth, Texas, and Las Vegas, Nevada. The investigation, which spanned 48 days during the summer of 2024, reveals horrendous conditions where animals are confined in filthy enclosures, subjected to dangerous public interactions, and left to suffer in overcrowded, dark spaces. The SeaQuest facilities are infested with roaches and maggots, with the pests found in food preparation areas, animal enclosures, and even on staff. Employees were reportedly desensitized to the infestations, with some brushing off roaches crawling on them or smashing the insects when pointed out by horrified customers. Maggots were discovered in food bowls and trash piles, contributing to the overall unclean conditions. At these locations, animals like parakeets were left to fight to the death in overcrowded aviaries, while otters pawed frantically at filthy acrylic windows, begging for food. Alvin, a sick capybara suffering from hip dysplasia, struggled to walk on the hard pellets covering his enclosure floor, while a kinkajou was physically forced into a small dog harness for public interactions, clearly distressed. A nearly blind albino porcupine named Peter Quill was regularly stressed by forced interactions, with staff warning the investigator to be cautious while cleaning the porcupine’s cage due to the danger of its quills. The cruelty extended beyond the animals to visitors and staff. One worker described the environment as “hell,” citing a culture of fear where staff were punished for reporting animal health issues. Staff members spoke out about neglected animals, including nurse sharks kept in too-small tanks, and incidents where customers kicked or stomped on animals, including parakeets. SeaQuest, a chain of shopping mall-based petting zoos that once had 10 locations, now operates just five after multiple closures. The investigation highlights a growing trend of retail petting zoos across the U.S. that often compromise the welfare of animals for profit, creating unsafe conditions for both animals and the public. In total, SeaQuest has received over 110 citations for violations of the Animal Welfare Act from the U.S. Department of Agriculture between 2019 and 2024, including 12 critical citations for serious harm to animals. Jennifer Eskra, director of legislative affairs at the Humane Society Legislative Fund, called for stricter laws and accountability, urging Congress to pass the Better CARE for Animals Act to ensure that those who violate animal welfare protections are held responsible. The Humane Society has submitted its investigation findings to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, calling for immediate action to end the cruel practices at SeaQuest. “These disgraceful operations abuse animals to turn a profit,” said Laura Hagen, director of captive wildlife at the Humane Society. “The public needs to know the truth and demand change.”