Holtsville Ecology Site to close amid allegations of animal mistreatment
The facility, operated by the Town of Brookhaven for decades, was originally intended as a refuge for animals that could not survive in the wild.
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The Holtsville Ecology Site, a longtime sanctuary for injured wildlife and exotic animals once kept illegally as pets, will be closing its doors permanently, according to an announcement made by Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico.
The decision follows allegations of animal mistreatment, including the high-profile death of Honey the bear in 2024, which drew public scrutiny and triggered an investigation.
The facility, operated by the Town of Brookhaven for decades, was originally intended as a refuge for animals that could not survive in the wild.
However, advocacy group Humane Long Island claims the animals have been subjected to poor conditions for years.
"The animals have been suffering at the ecology site for a long time," said John Di Leonardo, executive director of Humane Long Island. "We want to make sure they go to appropriate housing."
Panico said the facility no longer aligns with the town’s goals, citing taxpayer costs and shifting public opinion on local governments operating zoos.
“I think people's attitudes [about zoos] in general in society have changed," Panico said. "It's so far out of the scope of what the town government should be doing.”
The announcement comes roughly nine months after Brookhaven officials requested an investigation by the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office into the abuse allegations.
Despite the controversy, the closure is bittersweet for many in the community who have fond memories of visiting the animals.
“I go and visit the animals once in a while,” said Leo Goscinsky of Farmingville. “It’s a nice place to spend an hour, hour and a half. I love it. So I’m going to miss it a lot.”
Town officials say the animals currently housed at the ecology site will be gradually relocated to SPCA-approved and accredited rescue organizations. The transfers are expected to take place until the first quarter of next year, with assurances that the animals will receive proper care during the transition.
