So they are going to "free" captive born african lions into the wilds of Costa Rica??? This idea is ridiculous.
This National Geographic article has more information. Costa Rica Closes Zoos?Where Will the Animals Go? Two things of note: 1. This only affects the two government-owned facilities (Simón Bolívar Zoo and Conservation Center of Santa Ana). There are several other zoos and animal attractions which are not affected. 2. A separate law that makes it illegal to keep wildlife as pets has filled up the rescue facilities with surrendered animals. I don't know details about the two affected facilities, but some of the photos in the news articles indicate that massive renovations would be required if the zoos are not closed. My cynical nature says this was a financial decision which has been spun as an ethical decision to garner goodwill.
And another article about the subject : Closing zoos opens controversy in Costa Rica | Environment | DW.DE | 09.09.2013
Costa Rican zoos stay open for at least another 10 years : http://www.ticotimes.net/2014/03/17...-loses-court-battle-to-close-costa-ricas-zoos
