Prague Zoo expresses dismay at deaths of antelopes donated to South Africa

Prague Zoo has expressed dismay at the deaths of eight antelopes it donated to South Africa. The animals were put down after they arrived in Johannesburg on Friday in various stages of dehydration and without proper documentation, South Africa's National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said. However, Prague Zoo director Miroslav Bobek blamed Johannesburg Zoo for the animals’ deaths, and criticized the institution for planning to pass the antelopes on to a private breeder. Mr Bobek also slammed the South African authorities for ordering the slaughter of the animals over "one missing veterinary examination". Prague Zoo has filed a complaint over the incident with the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

Author: Jan Richter