Louisiana Zoo Called the Most Dysfunctional in America
ETHEL, La. - One Louisiana animal facility is back in the spotlight after a national report detailed years of escaped animals, federal violations, safety concerns, and management turmoil.
The facility, located in Ethel, Louisiana, has undergone changes in ownership and branding over the years, and while new leadership says it's currently working toward a better future, critics argue the zoo's troubled history raises serious questions.
Magnolia Wilds In Ethel, Louisiana
Magnolia Wilds, formerly known as Barn Hill Preserve, has a long history of unusual incidents involving missing and escaped animals according to a recent article from MSN.com.
According to reports, animals that reportedly disappeared or escaped included a Nile crocodile, kangaroos, a herd of water buffalo and an entire safari exhibit of bison, zebras and antelope, and more. The Louisiana zoo also racked up dozens of federal citations tied to animal care and management issues as reported by MSN.
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Inspectors from the USDA have reportedly documented 43 infractions between 2021 and this past February, 2026.
Former Employees Describe Chaotic Conditions
Several former employees interviewed by MSN.com described what they considered to be unsafe and poorly managed conditions.
Accounts included employee injuries, animal bites, enclosure problems, and allegations that some animals were not receiving adequate care.
From MSN.com -
The pool where visitors could swim with otters and penguins was frequently bright green with algae. The otters were known to bite guests who paid $215 to swim with them. The otter swim instructors say they were told to downplay the bites as 'just animal things' and to offer Neosporin and a Band-Aid.
New Leadership Says Changes Are Coming
The facility is now attempting a fresh start under new management, a new mission, and a new name, Sanctuary Hill. The remaining animals have reportedly been transferred into the care of Sanctuary Hill, a nonprofit organization, that hopes to transform the property into a sanctuary-focused operation. Vet tech Lauren Cotton says they plan to phase out many of the direct animal encounters and focus more on long-term animal welfare.
READ MORE: Giraffe Seized by Feds From Private Louisiana Zoo
Whether the facility can successfully reinvent itself remains to be seen.
Read more at MSN.com.
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Gallery Credit: Michael Scott