Long Island Zoo Closing Amid Allegations of Abuse
The largest and most contentious zoo in Long Island is set to close after local officials unanimously decided to withdraw its funding. This decision comes amidst claims of horrific animal mistreatment, with plans to transfer the affected animals to rescue facilities.
On Thursday night, the Brookhaven City Council approved the 2026 budget with a 7-0 vote, marking a significant setback for those hoping to maintain the taxpayer-funded sanctuary. This decision effectively shuts down the Holtsville Ecological Center Zoo.
“Managing this facility properly requires significantly more investment and resources,” remarked Town Supervisor Dan Panico during the board meeting.
The new budget, totaling $367 million, eliminated over $2 million in annual funding that had previously been allocated to cover the zoo’s operating expenses, which is managed by the town’s highway department.
Officials have argued that operating a zoo falls outside the fundamental services that local governments should provide.
The zoo, which charged no admission, had been running at a loss every year and is home to around 100 animals. Most of these creatures have been rescued or donated and can no longer survive in the wild.
Among the residents are bald eagles, bobcats, and buffalo. Officials have stated that they will be moved to suitable sanctuaries that can meet their needs.
However, the zoo’s situation has incited significant public outcry and contention during the board meeting.
Claims against the facility include severe neglect, such as allegations of a mountain lion being drowned, a chicken having surgery without anesthesia, neglecting to treat a bear’s deteriorating health, and failing to address lead poisoning in a duck.
Christine Layer, the center’s director, accused Panico and other town officials of leveraging “politics” to close the zoo, divert funds, and increase their own salaries.
She commented on Instagram in September, “The real reason for the closure is due to budget cuts, but our town still remains,” mentioning that she had granted herself over $30,000 in raises this year, including a salary boost for Panico.
The proposed budget for 2026 also suggests that local elected officials’ salaries would increase by about $30,000 altogether, with each employee seeing a rise of approximately $3,000 to $4,000.
Despite accusations of prioritizing salary increases, Panico and others have categorically rejected Layer’s assertions. They argue that the combination of abuse allegations, rising operational costs, limited staffing, and outdated facilities made it untenable to maintain the zoo.
Jennifer Ramos, a local resident, expressed her sorrow over the closure, indicating that she didn’t mind contributing her tax dollars to the sanctuary. “It’s very sad. I always take my grandchildren here, and they love it,” she said. “But if they’re abusing animals, they need to go. The essence of that place is to care for animals that can’t care for themselves.”
