(Graphic) Man and Tiger Both Dead After Failed Zoo Break-In
Outlets around the world are reporting a tragic incident that occurred at Youngor Wildlife Park in Ningbo, China. Apparently, a man fell into a tiger enclosure at the facility while trying to scale an exterior wall in an attempt to avoid paying the zoo’s entrance fee. Graphic videos taken by zoo guests—including families who saw the entire event unfold—show that the man was mauled by three tigers as onlookers screamed. Zoo officials reportedly shot and killed one tiger in the enclosure. The man was taken to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Although the video below has been blurred, viewers may still find it distressing:
Sadly, this most recent attack was both predictable and preventable. Every year, we see that caging wild animals often brings tragedy to both them and humans—yet we still fail to learn from incidents like this. Captivity doesn’t extinguish predators’ basic instincts, and denying them the opportunity to engage in the activities that give their lives meaning is torment for them. We can no longer act surprised when captive animals lash out at humans who force their way into close contact with them.
Just last year, two lions were shot and killed at the Metropolitan Zoo in Santiago, Chile, after a naked man entered their enclosure in a suspected suicide attempt.
We hope this latest incident will make “entertainment” venues in China and around the world reconsider their confinement of big cats—because until they do, the body count will continue to rise.
Take a Stand for Exploited Animals
While this type of incident is not something that occurs every day, you can make a difference in the lives of all animals used for entertainment—including those in the United States—by voting with your wallet. Steer clear of any roadside zoo or marine park that keeps animals confined in unnatural circumstances for profit. If you’d like to learn more about wild animals without risking harm to them, visit an accredited sanctuary or take a reputable wildlife tour that allows humans to observe animals in their natural habitats. Whether in beautiful high-definition documentaries or through a pair of binoculars from a safe distance, we can peacefully observe and learn about wild animals without putting them or ourselves at risk.
Did you know that the tourism industry enslaves an estimated half-million exotic animals worldwide? From selfies with tigers to elephant rides, these activities hurt living beings more than many people realize. If you’re planning a vacation to China (or any other country), make sure that the activities you participate in don’t involve captive wild animals.
