It was the home of weather prognosticator Holtsville Hal and a family attraction for generations, and now the zoo at the Brookhaven Ecology Center is being closed.
The animal preserve will gradually wind down operations over the next year, with animals to be relocated to sanctuaries. Town officials said the move follows complaints from former employees and animal welfare groups who raised concerns about mistreatment and poor conditions.
The closure was announced during a budget meeting at Town Hall in Farmingville. Officials said the decision was also driven by financial considerations, noting the zoo costs about $2 million annually to operate. Supervisor Dan Panico said resources would be better directed toward core town functions such as parks and building services.
The 30-acre Holtsville Ecology Site, located off Buckley Road, will remain open. The property includes two public swimming pools, playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and a fitness course. Officials said a new playground and spray park could be developed on the zoo property once the animals are rehomed.
The zoo, which is not accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, has faced scrutiny since a 2024 investigation found evidence of neglect, including unsanitary enclosures and inadequate space for several species. Former caretakers also raised concerns about noise and stress caused by large groups of visitors.
Relocation of the animals will take time, officials said, as the town works with local nature centers and sanctuaries to find appropriate homes. Groups such as the Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown and the Hoyt Farm in Commack were mentioned as potential destinations for Holtsville Hal and his companions.
The employment status of the zoo’s staff has not yet been determined. The Brookhaven Town Board must still vote to ratify the closure as part of budget deliberations, but officials indicated support for the move.