New exotic species arrive at the miniature zoo in Matanzas.

New species arrived at the mini zoo in Watkin Park in the city of Matanzas, thanks to an exchange with the National Zoo of Cuba.

The animals received are: 1 puma, 1 jaguar, 1 leopard, 2 Egyptian geese, 1 ankole, and 2 bigturones, all considered exotic specimens, according to a report from the official newspaper Girón.

Through an exchange, five lions that were in the Matanzas park were taken to the capital's zoo, leaving only one couple in the Athens of Cuba.

“The exchange was made in order to diversify the fauna of the place and to lighten the food burden represented by these big felines,” said the mentioned media outlet in a photo report published this Monday.

Currently, Watkin Park is under quarantine to allow for the adaptation of newly arrived animals.

They also mention that for the summer season, designed as vacations for children and young people with few leisure proposals, the Matanzas facility expects the addition of new animals.

"The mentioned species represent a unique novelty since the province had never had these specimens before," concludes the report.

In 2018, the birth of two lion cubs at this mini zoo brought joy to the city's residents.

However, for several years, neighbors have reported the malnutrition state that the animals are in.

"Our visits, far from being enjoyable, cause us sadness and distress," said a neighbor who in 2018 sent a letter to CiberCuba to denounce the situation.

This small zoo was reopened in April 2017. The renovations that were carried out, as reported by TV Yumurí at the time, adapted it for family enjoyment as it was in disrepair due to lack of maintenance.