OKC Zoo issues statement after Netflix release of 'Tiger King'

TULSA, Okla. (KTUL) — The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden released a statement on Netflix's docuseries "Tiger King."

The series follows former Oklahoma zookeeper "Joe Exotic" who was convicted of a murder-for-hire plot.

Zoo officials released the following statement:

When deciding to visit a zoo or other organization that hosts animals, it’s critical that Oklahomans select organizations accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), like the Oklahoma City Zoo. AZA is the international leader in animal care and conservation. AZA approval is the gold standard of animal welfare and conservation.

When families visit an AZA-accredited organization like the OKC Zoo and the Tulsa Zoo, they can be certain that the animals are not being exploited or abused. This means that caretakers are trained experts, animal habitats are designed to reflect their natural environments, animals enjoy enrichment activities that keep them mentally stimulated, and top-notch veterinary treatment is provided.

Unfortunately, not all zoos are committed to this high level of animal care. Many roadside attraction zoos are motivated solely by profit, engage in wildlife exploitation and participate in the illegal wildlife trade. AZA members like the Oklahoma City Zoo strive to ensure that wildlife in their care are not stressed by external factors. Animal selfies, a frequent selling point of unaccredited roadside zoos, perpetuate animal cruelty.

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