Jongia State Petting Zoo, also known as Bisteboel, in the Frisian village of Bears made headlines in 2023 after serious cases of animal neglect were uncovered. Inspections on the premises revealed that several animals were not receiving the care they required. Authorities considered the situation so alarming that the petting zoo was deemed closed at that time and was no longer accessible to the public.
Reports from sources including the Leeuwarder Courant and Friesch Dagblad indicated that the manager was convicted by the court for the documented neglect. In addition to the sentence, he received a stricter animal-ownership ban, severely limiting his ability to keep or care for animals. A breeding ban was also imposed to prevent further issues related to animal welfare and health.
The court ruling made it clear that under these conditions the petting zoo could no longer operate in a normal manner. Since the conviction, there have been no signs of a reopening or restart. As a result, Jongia State — once a beloved spot for children and animal enthusiasts — stayed closed and it looks like the once beautiful farm is being demolished.
The last years were a stressful situation for the friendly owner, because he loved his animals so much. The last thing I could find about him was that he died this year.
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