For weeks now, nearly 3,000 cows have been trapped aboard the Spiridon II in Turkey, with the situation exacerbated by overcrowding and insufficient food and water. The ship left Uruguay on September 20, 2025, however the Turkish port of Bandirma denied them entry due to lack of required paperwork. Among the cows on the Spiridon II, over 1,400 cows are pregnant, with some even giving birth in the horrific conditions. So far, 58 cows have died and many calves are unaccounted for. The the situation on board has deteriorated due to lack of veterinary care as the cows are forced to linger in unsanitary, cramped quarters. Some have been seen drinking condensation from the pipes. The crisis has occurred because of bureaucratic issues between by Uruguay (the owners of the cows) and Turkey (who needs to intervene). Despite the conditions, neither government has taken real action thus far. In addition to the tragedy for the animals, it is concerning for the environment. The decomposing animals and waste is generating both methane and ammonia gases, while also polluting the waters surrounding the ship. Animal rights organizations are quickly calling for food, water, veterinary care, and partially unloading the animals to alleviate the overcrowding at the feedlot. The example demonstrates the need to end live animal exports.
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