Mexican Green Party's Proposed Wildlife Law Threatens Over 600 Marine Mammals, Warns AZCARM President

A proposed reform to Mexico's General Wildlife Law by the Green Ecological Party of Mexico (PVEM) is raising concerns for the well-being of over 600 marine mammals. According to Ernesto Zazueta, President of the Association of Zoological Parks, Breeding Centers, and Aquariums of Mexico (AZCARM), the reform could endanger manatees, sea lions, seals, otters, and dolphins currently living in animal care facilities. Zazueta argues that the initiative, which aims to prohibit the possession of marine mammals even for conservation purposes, fails to consider that 60% of these animals have been rescued. He emphasized that marine mammals often face threats in the wild, including habitat loss, pollution, and accidental capture. Institutions affiliated with AZCARM invest approximately 360 million pesos annually to care for around 300 dolphins, ensuring their physical and emotional well-being. Marine mammals under human care often have longer lifespans due to protection from predators and consistent access to specialized care and balanced diets.