Wide range of species rehomed from private homes, government confiscations and closed facilities
COAL VALLEY, Ill. (June 19, 2025) – Niabi Zoo is offering refuge to a growing number of animals in need, working alongside federal, state and local agencies to rehome animals confiscated at U.S. borders, removed from illegal or abusive private ownership or displaced by facility closures.
In some cases, Niabi Zoo has served as a temporary custodian while criminal investigations proceed, a role known as “Chain of Custody” housing. In other cases, animals have joined the zoo’s collection on a permanent basis following legal resolution. To date, all animals taken in under these circumstances have remained in Niabi’s care.
“Providing a safe, stable environment for these animals is part of our responsibility as an accredited zoo,” said Lee Jackson, director of Niabi Zoo. “Thanks to our expert animal care team, veterinary staff and flexible housing options, we’re able to step in and provide appropriate care when it’s urgently needed.”
The zoo has welcomed a variety of species through these efforts, including:
- Ibera tortoises
- Cane toads
- Anthony’s poison dart frogs
- Red-handed tamarins
- Central American red-backed squirrel monkeys
- Fennec fox
- Blue and gold macaws
Additional animals are currently pending transfer, including Nile monitors. Some animals remain confidential due to ongoing legal proceedings.
Not all new residents arrived through confiscation. Niabi Zoo recently rehomed two peacocks turned over by the Scott County Humane Society after they were found roaming the streets of Bettendorf. In addition, the zoo accepted several aquatic and amphibian species — including Asian small-clawed otters, White’s tree frogs, axolotls and koi fish — following the permanent closure of a Minnesota-based aquarium.
“These cases highlight the importance of responsible animal stewardship and the role zoos can play in supporting both animal welfare and legal processes,” said Jackson. “We’re proud to partner with agencies that are working to uphold these standards.”
Visitors to Niabi Zoo can learn more about many of these animals throughout the summer. Niabi is open Tuesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Oct. 26.