The operator of the petting zoo at Cedar Point, Honey Hill Farm, was recently cited by the USDA following incidents in June where two camels and approximately 15 goats escaped their enclosures. These escapes, which occurred on June 11 and June 15, were reportedly caused by inadequate barriers that allowed visitors to enter animal areas and release the animals.
The USDA’s citations were triggered by concerns over insufficient staffing to monitor animal interactions and a damaged fence with dangerous, sharp wires. Videos of the camels escaping and nearly injuring a visitor in a wheelchair have circulated on social media, raising additional safety concerns.
Following these incidents, Honey Hill Farm was required to implement additional security measures. The citations also came after PETA notified the USDA about the issues and called for an investigation.