Iowa Zoo Facing Cruelty Allegations After the Death of a Shark

An Iowa aquarium is facing calls to shut down after it euthanized a shark that bit an employee this week.

The Des Moines Register reports that Blue Zoo, a for-profit aquarium, opened in May in the Villages at Jordan Creek Town Center. The euthanized shark is reportedly the second animal to die at the facility since it opened, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Register reports that the Humane Society of the United States is calling for an investigation and for Blue Zoo to close.

The latest incident happened Monday when an 18-inch bamboo shark was being transported after showing signs of distress. After being moved to a larger tank and recovering, the shark became startled and latched on to a team member's hand, according to the Register. Multiple efforts were made to get the shark off, but it wouldn't let go. This forced officials to euthanize the shark.

The Register reports that some of the zoo's exhibits are closed this week due to the attack, but that its mission to provide hands-on experiences with aquatic creatures will continue. The USDA had raised concerns before about the way the zoo handles and cares for the animals.

Blue Zoo is not accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, according to the Register. It does, however, report to the USDA and to Iowa Fish and Wildlife. Blue Zoo would not comment to the Register about how many animals have died since the facility opened.

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