Sibiu Zoo inspected after a live rabbit was given as food to a python, watched by visitors

Sibiu Zoo is being inspected after a visitor photographed a live rabbit being placed in the terrarium of a python weighing more than 40 kilograms. The incident took place during visiting hours, and the rabbit escaped alive.

The Environmental Guard, the Sibiu Sanitary Veterinary Directorate and the Animal Police carried out an inspection at the zoo on Tuesday and are examining the circumstances in which the incident occurred. The institution’s representatives acknowledged that the reptile is fed live prey, but said the terrarium should have been closed during feeding.

According to the zoo’s management, the python generally refuses dead animals and needs to feel the prey’s warmth and heartbeat. Ethologists, however, say veterinary recommendations call for using dead food whenever possible, including frozen and thawed prey, to protect the reptile and reduce the suffering of the animal provided as food.

The Environmental Guard is checking compliance with the environmental permit. Feeding live prey is allowed only in exceptional cases and in accordance with a diet established by a veterinarian. Failure to comply with the conditions may result in a fine of up to 100,000 lei. The case has also been reported to the police, and an animal protection federation is preparing a demonstration.