Mexico finds tigers, baboons, camels abandoned by circus

Mexican authorities have confirmed they found six tigers, seven baboons, four camels and three dromedaries abandoned in cages without food, water or adequate care in the southern Mexico state of Yucatan. The passage of laws forbidding animal acts in circuses has raised fears that the exotic species might be abandoned once they could no longer pay for their keep by performing. A circus had been set up nearby, but the officials did not name it and the animals were seized. Abandoning such animals could lead to fines of up to $225,000. Circus owners say they will no longer be able to feed the animals if they can’t show them.

20 animals were found near the city of Merida, many missing claws, teeth or fur. Many were underweight or had scars or skin infections.

The Attorney General’s Office for Environmental Protection said.