West Coast Game Park Safari in Bandon, Oregon, was raided by state police on Thursday, following a criminal investigation into allegations of widespread animal mistreatment and neglect. The roadside zoo, home to over 450 animals, has been under scrutiny for years due to numerous USDA violations.
The investigation stems from a series of disturbing USDA reports documenting appalling conditions at the park. Recent inspections have revealed emaciated lions and a leopard exhibiting signs of starvation, with ribs and spines clearly visible. Inspectors also found rodent infestations, contaminated food storage areas, and hazardous debris piles throughout the facility. One particularly shocking discovery involved a deceased tiger stored in a freezer for several months alongside frozen turkeys intended for animal feed.
The USDA reports also detail concerning safety violations, including instances of visitors interacting with dangerous animals like jaguars and bears. Photos posted on social media in 2023 showed visitors petting these animals, highlighting a critical violation that endangered both the public and the animals involved. These reports and concerns date back over a decade, painting a grim picture of long-term neglect.
Oregon State Police (OSP) Captain Kyle Kennedy stated that the search warrants executed on Thursday were necessary to gather further evidence regarding the park’s operations. The investigation, initiated after complaints from local residents and nonprofits, involves multiple agencies, including the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
According to its website, West Coast Game Park Safari, established in 1968, boasts “up close and personal interaction” with 75 different species. While historical records suggest the park once attracted 60,000 annual visitors, its current popularity remains unclear. MaagX reached out to the park for comment, but no response was received before publication.
Roadside zoos like West Coast Game Park Safari have long faced criticism from animal welfare advocates. Organizations like Tigers in America, which rescues tigers from abusive facilities, estimate over 3,000 such establishments exist across the US. The Animal Legal Defense Fund points out that these attractions often subject animals to inadequate living conditions, insufficient diets, neglectful medical care, and a lack of mental stimulation.
The investigation into West Coast Game Park Safari remains ongoing, and the park is currently closed to the public. Authorities have not yet announced any arrests or disclosed plans for the animals’ future. The outcome of this investigation will be crucial in determining the fate of the hundreds of animals residing at the facility and potentially contribute to broader discussions about the ethical treatment of animals in roadside zoos.
