Semarnat clarifies Animal Experience Mexico not operated by agency; search for Bengal tiger Kenzo continues

Mexico's Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) has clarified that it is not the operator of Animal Experience Mexico, the facility from which a Bengal tiger named Kenzo escaped on June 27. Semarnat explained that such establishments are registered for the controlled reproduction and management of wildlife, and their operational responsibility lies with the registered owner. The agency emphasized that these facilities are obligated by law to keep exotic animals confined and ensure public safety.

Following Kenzo's escape, local and federal authorities launched an immediate search operation. Initially comprising officials from Semarnat, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa), Civil Protection, and the Tepetlaoxtoc municipal government, the search group expanded on June 28. It now includes specialists from the State of Mexico's Environmental Protection and Territorial Management Office and the Zacango Ecological Park.

The Tepetlaoxtoc municipal government, led by Mayor Diana Morales, reported that search efforts have covered more than 300 hectares in the communities of San Bernardo Tlalmimilopan and San Pedro. These operations are ongoing 24 hours a day, utilizing ground patrols, drones, and helicopters with the primary objective of locating the tiger and safeguarding the population's integrity and security. The search continues despite the challenges presented by the tiger's elusive nature and the terrain.