In recent weeks, there have been reports of multiple baby kangaroos going missing from two zoos in Russia, sparking concern that these animals may have been stolen as part of a coordinated effort. The first incident occurred at the Yaroslavl Zoo in the Yaroslavl region, where a kangaroo that was born in the winter disappeared from its enclosure. It was discovered that the suspected kidnappers had cut a security camera cable before taking the animal early in the morning. This prompted the police to launch a criminal investigation into the disappearance.
Following this incident, two more six-month-old kangaroos were reported missing from a bird park in the Kaluga region, southwest of Moscow. The park owner reported that the perpetrators had arrived at night, cut the fence, entered the shed, and stolen the pair of kangaroos. Police in the Kaluga region also opened a criminal investigation into the disappearance of these animals. Renowned animal handler Edgard Zapashny suggested that both incidents could be connected and speculated that the kangaroos might have been taken for various reasons, such as being ordered by a private collector, stolen for sale on the black market, or taken to be killed and stuffed.
Kaluga-based journalist Yevgeny Serkin pointed out that there has been an increase in demand for exotic animals among zoos and private collectors in Russia, especially following Western sanctions against the country. This rise in demand may have contributed to the targeting of kangaroos in the recent thefts. While investigations are ongoing to determine the motives behind these thefts and to recover the missing animals, the incidents have raised concerns about the safety and security of vulnerable species in zoos across Russia.
The incidents of baby kangaroos going missing from Russian zoos have highlighted the potential risks faced by exotic animals in captivity. These thefts not only put the animals at risk but also raise questions about the enforcement of security measures at zoos and wildlife parks. The thefts may have been carried out by individuals looking to profit from the illegal wildlife trade or by collectors seeking to add rare and exotic species to their private collections.
The authorities in Russia have responded to these incidents by launching criminal investigations into the disappearance of the kangaroos and implementing measures to enhance security and surveillance in zoos. The involvement of renowned animal handlers and journalists in shedding light on the potential motives behind these thefts has brought attention to the issue of wildlife crime in the country. As efforts continue to recover the missing kangaroos and prevent further incidents, it is essential for zoos and wildlife parks to strengthen their security protocols to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals under their care.
