Heartbreaking photographs of distressed animals languishing in an abandoned zoo have surfaced, sparking outrage.
Concerned activists say the miserable animals, including tigers, bears and monkeys, could die if they aren't rescued from The Parque Zoologico Prudencio Navarro on Spain's Costa de la Luz.
The zoo closed its doors two months ago after a number of deaths and complaints from campaigners.
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Following the closure, authorities in Ayamonte - who run the zoo - were accused of ignoring offers to rehome the animals, leaving their ultimate fate a mystery.
But new images have now confirmed activists' worst fears, showing bears, a tiger, four baboons and various other creatures alone in their filthy enclosures.
The Proyecto Gran Simio (Great Ape Project) slammed zoo bosses for failing to act and said the lack of security could lead to the animals escaping.
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Spokesman Pedro Terrados said: "The zoo is in a state of chaotic abandonment, with depressed animals unattended by veterinarians.
"There is stagnant water in their enclosures, with great danger of infection if they consume it. It could also become a nest of mosquitoes, transmitting diseases.
"Most of the animals are doing very badly psychologically."
Mr Terrados added that it was unclear who was feeding the animals, if anyone, and said it was feared they would die.
He said: "Who would feed them? How? And what diet? How many vitamins to each species? What control do they have? None. We do not know anything.
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"On the other hand there is a tremendous lack of security. Until it came out in the media, they had not closed the way to people, because they left the doors open."
They are now urging the council to take action before 'animals die, or a serious accident or escape occurs due to lack of security'.
Mr Terrados said: "The animals at the zoo should go to specialised sanctuaries of wild animals.
"We are fighting in Spain for the state to create a rescue centre to accommodate the animals that are abandoned by zoos or circuses that stop using them.
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"It is not ethical or educational to visit animals that have lost all their essence as a species, where they are bored and withered, and lifeless cards existing only for the amusement of humans.
"The cages of the zoos are being emptied by death of the animals. They must be closed forever and not used to exploit animals economically."
LADbible has contacted Ayamonte city hall for comment.
Featured Image Credit: Google EarthTopics: World News, Zoo, Interesting, Spain, Animals