Miami-Dade Urges USDA Action Over Miami Seaquarium Allegations

Miami-Dade County officials are pressing the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to investigate serious allegations raised by two whistleblowers connected to the Miami Seaquarium. The claims include insufficient funding, food shortages for animals, and a veterinarian allegedly practicing without valid credentials. The whistleblowers also report that the head veterinarian has left, and two veterinary staff members resigned in protest over animal care.

In response, Miami-Dade Chief Operating Officer Jimmy Morales sent an urgent letter to the USDA, highlighting concerns that the Seaquarium is struggling to pay employees and meet operational needs. The letter also points to previous violations of federal regulations by the facility.

County officials attempted an unannounced visit to the Seaquarium on Wednesday but were denied entry. This follows an ongoing dispute between the county and the Seaquarium’s owners, The Dolphin Company, which is facing eviction from county-owned land.

The Seaquarium, now only open on weekends, has yet to respond to the allegations. Local 10 News has reached out to The Dolphin Company for comment.