Baboon Escapes Cuban Zoo, Found in Nearby Neighborhood

HAVANA, Cuba — November 21, 2025 — A baboon that escaped from a zoo in Cuba was located in a nearby residential area after a coordinated search involving special forces and veterinary experts, officials said Thursday.

The primate managed to leave its enclosure at the zoo earlier this week, prompting authorities to launch a search and rescue operation to ensure public safety and the animal’s well-being. The baboon was found unharmed in a neighborhood close to the zoo, according to authorities.

Special forces personnel were deployed to assist in the search due to concerns about the animal’s potential to cause harm or become injured. Veterinary specialists accompanied the team to safely capture and assess the baboon’s health once it was located.

Officials did not provide details on how the baboon escaped but confirmed that the animal was returned to the zoo’s care without incident. The zoo is reportedly reviewing its security measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The incident raised concerns among local residents, but no injuries or damage were reported during the baboon’s brief time outside the zoo. Authorities emphasized that the coordinated response prioritized both public safety and the animal’s welfare.

Zoo staff and officials continue to monitor the situation closely and have reiterated their commitment to maintaining secure enclosures for all animals in their care. The successful recovery of the baboon reflects the collaboration between security forces and animal care professionals in managing unexpected situations involving wildlife.

This event highlights ongoing challenges faced by zoological institutions in maintaining secure environments for captive animals, especially those capable of escaping and entering populated areas. Authorities have urged the public to report any sightings of escaped animals promptly to facilitate swift responses.

The zoo has not announced any changes to its operations beyond the planned security review but stated that it will remain vigilant to avoid future incidents. The baboon’s escape and recovery serve as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and coordination among various agencies in managing animal-related emergencies.