‘Tiger King’ zoo closes after investigation into treatment of animals

WYNNEWOOD, Oklahoma. – The Oklahoma Zoo featured in Netflix’s “Tiger King” documentary has closed after federal officials investigated allegations of animal abuse and suspended its license.

The Grand Wynnewood Exotic Wildlife Park closed to the public after the U.S. Department of Agriculture suspended owner Jeff Lowe’s exhibitor license for 21 days on Monday.

The zoo, previously run by Joseph Maldonado-Passage – also known as Joe Exotic – rose to fame after being featured in Netflix’s “Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness”.

The Garvin County Sheriff’s Office and the USDA investigated the zoo after receiving an official report documenting photos showing a lion with its ears covered in flies and another with the tips of its ears covered in blood.

But Lowe said in a statement Tuesday that his license had been suspended for a “litany of lies.” He said he plans to open a new private film park for TV and streaming services, KFOR-TV reported.

“Rest assured that all animals will continue to receive excellent care,” said Lowe.

Officials from the animal rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, known as PETA, say photos included in the report show lions suffering from attacks from flies. In this condition, flies are usually attracted to uncleaned animal waste, bite other animals and lay eggs there, causing the hatched maggots to eat the skin.

“PETA looks forward to seeing each of the bereaved animals at GW Zoo transferred to a suitable facility where it does not take federal intervention for a sick cat to receive veterinary care,” said Brittany Peet, Foundation Assistant General PETA. Attorney for law enforcement on captive animals.

An Indiana district court recently ordered Lowe to provide veterinary records for lions that were allegedly treated improperly.