A total of 68 big cats from the zoo shown in Netflix docuseries Tiger King have been seized by federal officials, as part of a case against owners Jeff and Lauren Lowe - who are accused of violating the Endangered Species Act and the Animal Welfare Act.
The confiscated animals include 46 tigers, seven lions, 15 lion-tiger hybrids and one jaguar.
The Department of Justice said in a press release that it had 'conducted three inspections of Tiger King Park in Thackerville, Oklahoma, since mid-December 2020'.
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During these visits, government officials issued multiple citations to the Lowes for failing to properly care for the zoo's animals.
The release said: "During these inspections, the Lowes received citations for failing to provide the animals with adequate or timely veterinary care, appropriate nutrition, and shelter that protects them from inclement weather and is of sufficient size to allow them to engage in normal behavior.
"The Lowes were recently found in contempt after months of noncompliance with court orders requiring the Lowes, in part, to employ a qualified veterinarian and establish and maintain a program of veterinary care that meets the requirements of the Animal Welfare Act.
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"The United States alleges that these violations as to ESA-protected animals also constitute violations of the ESA."
According to a federal affidavit, many of the animals were found to have bone disorders due to calcium deficiency, after consuming boneless and ground meat.
It also claims the Lowes harassed government employees during the three inspections, saying that at one point Lauren even threatened to kill an official.
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Acting Assistant Attorney General Jean E. Williams of the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division said: "This seizure should send a clear message that the Justice Department takes alleged harm to captive-bred animals protected under the Endangered Species Act very seriously."
Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicholas L. McQuaid of the Justice Department's Criminal Division added: "This important animal rescue operation of nearly 70 endangered and allegedly abused lions, tigers, and a jaguar shows how effective civil forfeiture can be when utilized in conjunction with statutes like the Endangered Species Act.
"We are proud to have partnered with the Environment and Natural Resources Division to protect these amazing animals, and will work to ensure that they go to responsible animal preserves where they can be safely maintained rather than exploited."
Featured Image Credit: PA
Topics: Tiger King, News, US News, Animals