Desolation and hunger in Caracas’ once-renowned zoo

Ruperta the elephant eats dry grass. In late May, she got sick after being fed pumpkin exclusively for an extended period of time.

In the “contact” area of the Caricuao zoo, sheep finish eating more than 6 1/2 pounds of pumpkin.

A vandalized and rusty sign indicates the place where capybaras use to be in the Caricuao zoo. The rodent is a popular source of meat in Venezuelan cuisine. In previous years, the animal was stolen from the zoo, presumably for food.

The “contact” area of the Caricuao zoo, in the afternoon. Most areas of the zoo are empty, even though the entrance fee is just one cent.

Goats feast on pumpkin at the zoo.

A bison and a bull are surrounded by vultures at the Caricuao zoo.

Throughout the park, water looks green and slimy. Vultures often drink water from the ponds near dying animals.

Two monkeys roam the Caricuao zoo. There are dozens of loose monkeys in the park that gather around people bearing food.

The entrance of the Caricuao zoo in Caracas. Summer break has not brought increased attendance at the zoo.