El Paso, TX - Jungle Reef is committed to providing the highest level of care to each and every animal who calls our facility home. A number of recent local media reports have misrepresented our dedication to animal welfare and safety, and we would like to set the record straight.

At Jungle Reef, we have always been passionate about ensuring the well-being of our animals. Every species in our care receives not only the nourishment and resources needed for physical health but also the enrichment and attention essential for their emotional well-being. We exceed industry standards by providing routine outdoor breaks, enrichment activities, and a surplus of extra space for our animals to thrive. Additionally, we are proud of our record of animal conservation efforts which have afforded many animals a second chance at life through rescue efforts, rehabilitation programs, and partnerships with accredited organizations. At Jungle Reef, we don’t just meet regulatory requirements—we surpass them.

In addition to maintaining our own standards, Jungle Reef works closely with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to monitor and verify legal standards of care. Routine inspections occur to ensure compliance, and while occasional infractions may be identified, these do not equate to routine neglect or lack of care. Instead, they serve as opportunities for refinement and continuous improvement. We take all feedback seriously and promptly address any concerns raised.

It is important to acknowledge that, like any organization responsible for live animals, incidents may occur. However, these are the exception, not the norm. When mistakes happen, corrective action is swift and decisive. For example, the tragic loss of Jupiter, our female wallaby, due to employee negligence was met with immediate termination of the responsible employee, followed by an increased focus on employee training and procedure review. Jungle Reef maintains a zero-tolerance policy for negligence and requires all employees to adhere strictly to our animal care protocols.

We are disappointed that certain media outlets have exaggerated these matters in an effort to attract attention to themselves, implying that routine inspections and isolated incidents are indicative of systemic issues. This mischaracterization not only harms our reputation, but threatens to undermine our ability to care for our beloved animals, whom we dedicate ourselves to protecting. Despite these challenges, our focus remains where it has always been—on providing a safe environment for our animals and an enriching experience for our guests.

After all, Jungle Reef is more than just an interactive aquarium—it is an educational destination where families and children can learn about wildlife, conservation, and the importance of responsible animal care. By fostering curiosity and respect for nature, we hope to inspire the next generation to appreciate and protect the world’s wildlife. We invite the public to visit Jungle Reef, experience our high standards firsthand, and connect with the beauty of these creatures through the knowledge and passion of our dedicated staff.