Calkiní, Campeche – The Campeche State Prosecutor’s Office opened a federal criminal investigation on August 4, 2025, after a video surfaced showing residents of Calkiní placing live iguanas, foxes and snakes inside traditional clay-pot piñatas and beating them when they emerged. Animal Cruelty in Campeche has shocked animal-welfare groups and prompted calls for swift justice under Mexico’s Wildlife Protection Law. PVDN has chosen not to share the video or screenshots of the disturbing abuse against animals.
In Mexico City, federal authorities confirmed they will review provisions of the General Wildlife Law. Those responsible face up to ten years in prison and heavy fines for mistreating protected species. Prosecutors say the case marks one of the most severe instances of animal abuse tied to a cultural event in recent memory.
Community leaders in Calkiní expressed regret and disagreement over the festival practice. Local activist María González called the footage “heartbreaking” and urged residents to respect wildlife. “This tradition must change,” she said. “Our culture does not require violence against animals.”
Animal Cruelty in Campeche under scrutiny
Investigators will interview up to 20 witnesses, including festival organizers and local officials. They plan to gather phone footage, inspect the recovered piñata fragments and analyze veterinary reports on the surviving animals. The state prosecutor’s office has asked for support from the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) and the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA).
Experts warn that this could set a legal precedent. “If the federal authorities pursue these charges, it will send a clear message nationwide,” said Dr. Julio Ramírez, a veterinarian and wildlife consultant. He noted that iguanas and native snakes are protected species under Mexican law.
Despite official condemnation, some residents defended the festival as an old custom. They argued that it honored ancestral practices of celebrating nature’s bounty. But animal-rights organizations counter that no tradition justifies cruelty. They have launched a petition demanding the permanent ban of live-animal piñatas.
Looming legal consequences for traditional festivals
The investigation could reach the federal courts by late September. Prosecutors must establish whether organizers knowingly violated Article 420 of the Federal Penal Code, which carries sentences of two to ten years for wildlife trafficking or abuse. They will also consider whether local authorities failed to enforce state-level wildlife protections.
Mayor Roberto Pérez of Calkiní issued a statement pledging cooperation. He said the municipality will review its event-approval processes and consider fines for organizers who endanger animals. “We regret the incident and will take action to ensure it never happens again,” the mayor wrote in a press release.
Human-rights advocates say this inquiry highlights a broader need to modernize cultural festivals across Mexico. They hope the probe spurs educational campaigns on humane treatment of animals and respect for biodiversity.
As the federal investigation moves forward, attention will focus on whether long-standing customs can coexist with evolving standards of animal welfare. For now, animal cruelty in Campeche has united activists, authorities and community members in a rare show of consensus: such violence must end.
