Saris Félix Cuesta Sriprayoon, widely known as Zape, is stepping into the spotlight as he takes on a significant role in the wake of his father Frank Cuesta's recent controversies. Zape, the eldest son of the well-known Spanish herpetologist and TV presenter, has decided to follow in his father's footsteps, creating a social media presence that aims to honor and continue his father's legacy.
For years, Zape has pursued a career in Spanish soccer, a path that diverges from his father's long-standing work in wildlife conservation in Thailand. However, during these challenging times, Zape has emerged as a pillar of support for Frank Cuesta, who has faced serious allegations of animal trafficking at his Sanctuary of Liberty.
In February 2025, Frank Cuesta was arrested by Thai authorities, accused of illegal possession of protected wild species at his sanctuary in Lao Khwan, a sprawling 16-hectare refuge where he has rehabilitated rescued animals. After spending two days in detention, Cuesta announced his intention to leave Thailand, a country he has called home for many years, and confirmed that he would be stepping back from public life and social media to protect his family from the fallout of these events.
In a heartfelt video shared on his YouTube channel, Frank Cuesta expressed the emotional toll the situation has taken on his family. He recounted a distressing encounter involving his children and someone close to his ex-wife, Yuyee, where hurtful comments were made about his potential imprisonment. "This is affecting my family immensely," he said, adding that he felt it necessary to retreat from the public eye to mitigate the damage.
Despite his father's struggles, Zape has quickly gained traction on social media, launching his own YouTube channel just a week and a half ago. In this short time, he has amassed over one hundred thousand subscribers, an impressive feat that highlights his determination to carry on his father's work. Zape's channel features six videos, showcasing his experiences and connection with the animals at the sanctuary, which he affectionately refers to as a second home.
In one of his first posts, Zape stated, "We are in the sanctuary," while exploring the grounds and interacting with various animals, including kangaroos, goats, ostriches, and parrots. He expressed gratitude for the rapid growth of his subscriber base, saying, "Thank you for the subscribers; it has been crazy. In less than two weeks, we reached one hundred thousand. Take care, and see you next time." His enthusiasm and passion for wildlife reflect the values instilled in him by his father, who has dedicated his life to animal conservation.
The response to Zape's new channel has been overwhelmingly positive, with many viewers noting the striking similarities between him and his father. Comments such as "It’s like seeing Frank when he was young, incredible," and "He’s a clone of his dad, very handsome and a worthy successor," demonstrate the public's affection for both father and son. This support is particularly poignant given the difficult circumstances surrounding Frank Cuesta's recent legal troubles.
As Zape navigates this new venture, he is not only honoring his father's legacy but also building his own identity in the world of wildlife conservation and social media. His decision to take over the family legacy comes at a time when Frank Cuesta's future remains uncertain. The elder Cuesta's work in Thailand has been instrumental in raising awareness about wildlife preservation and the challenges faced by endangered species.
Frank Cuesta's sanctuary, which he named 'Libertad,' has been a haven for rescued animals over the years. His dedication to their care has garnered him a loyal following on social media, where he has shared both educational content and personal stories from his life in Thailand. However, the recent allegations have cast a shadow over his work, leading to calls for greater scrutiny of wildlife trafficking and the legal frameworks surrounding it.
In light of these events, Zape's emergence as a content creator serves as a beacon of hope for fans of the Cuesta family. His commitment to continuing his father's mission is evident in every video he shares, as he strives to maintain the connection between the sanctuary and its supporters. As he engages with viewers, Zape is not only educating them about the animals but also fostering a sense of community that is vital for the sanctuary's future.
While Frank Cuesta has chosen to step back from the limelight, his son's rapid rise in popularity indicates that the family's legacy will endure. As Zape continues to build his platform, he is likely to encounter both challenges and opportunities that will shape his journey. The support he receives from fans and followers will be crucial as he forges his path in the world of wildlife conservation.
The situation remains fluid, with Frank Cuesta's legal battles ongoing and his future in Thailand uncertain. However, one thing is clear: Zape is determined to carry on the work that his father has dedicated his life to, ensuring that the message of wildlife preservation continues to resonate with audiences around the world. As he embarks on this new chapter, Zape is not only honoring his father's legacy but also paving the way for a new generation of wildlife advocates.
In the face of adversity, the Cuesta family is demonstrating resilience and commitment to their cause. With Zape at the helm of their social media efforts, there is hope that the important work of animal conservation will continue to thrive, inspiring others to join the fight for wildlife protection.
