John Di Leonardo is concerned about wildlife and animal mistreatment.
As the executive director of Humane Long Island, he is strongly opposed to a plan by Larry Wallach to open a business called Wildlife Adventures in Margate. Although no plans to open this business have been finalized, Di Leonardo believes Wallach is displaying a sloth and a kangaroo at local events.
On Wednesday, June 3, at 6 p.m., Di Leonardo and other animal activists will lead a demonstration at Margate City Hall during the commission meeting. The purpose of the protest is to oppose the proposed Wildlife Adventures business and raise awareness of alleged animal mistreatment in the wildlife display industry.
Di Leonardo said he is specifically concerned about animal display businesses featuring sloths, stating that the protest aims to prevent such a business from opening in Margate due to potential harm to the animals.
“Sloths are not pets and should live in rainforest environments, not enclosures for public display,” said Di Leonardo. “They are slow and rely on camouflage for safety.”
Wallach recently attended a Margate commission meeting and brought a sloth, which he showed to the attendees. Commissioner Tommy Ruzzano welcomed him and encouraged people to come and see the sloth.
During the recent Margate Elementary School fifth-grade graduation at the Sports Complex, Wallach brought a sloth named Cosmo. His baby kangaroo and a cockatoo were also brought onstage.
“I am coming from Long Island, New York, to lead this demonstration to warn the public and the commissioners about Wallach’s long history of mistreating animals and endangering the public,” alleges Di Leonardo.
Ruzzano said he does not know about complaints or problems with Wallach’s animal business. He believes Wallach treats his animals well and would support his efforts to open an animal-oriented business in Margate.
“The sloth he brought to City Hall was not being abused, and I saw that he handled the sloth very professionally. I think if he opens an animal display business in Margate, it would be a great addition to the city and the kids would love it,” said Ruzzano.
Ruzzano said he is not aware of an upcoming demonstration at City Hall, but he will handle it if it happens. “I have no problem talking with him,” he said, referring to Di Leonardo.
Lisa Huriash, Margate’s public information officer, said the city administration is aware that people plan to speak on this topic during public comments.
Wallach did not respond to a call from Margate Talk.
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