In a shocking incident in Thailand, a 32-year-old Swiss tourist, Mr Stefan Specogna, who was volunteering for a local wildlife conservation foundation in Chiang Dao, found himself in a life-threatening situation when he was bitten on the arm by a bear. He was attempting to feed the bear inside its enclosure when the incident occurred, according to The Straits Times.
The tourist, a volunteer with the local wildlife conservation organization situated in the Muang Ngai Subdistrict, Chiang Dao District, was providing food to a bear under the care of the foundation, reaching into the cage to feed the bear.
Bitten By Bear, Who Refused To Let Go
However, the bear unexpectedly bit the volunteer’s right arm, causing severe injuries. Despite the volunteer’s attempts to withdraw his hand from the animal enclosure, the bear refused to release its grip, leading to significant injuries.
Concerned for his life and fearing further harm, the tourist made a courageous decision – he used a knife he had with him to amputate his own arm, eventually freeing himself from the bear’s grasp.
Witnessing the alarming situation, onlookers and fellow volunteers rushed to provide immediate first aid. The injured volunteer was swiftly transported to the Chiang Dao Hospital for urgent medical attention.
Arm Detached At Elbow
Medical professionals at Chiang Dao Hospital reported that the victim suffered extensive injuries, with the arm detached at the elbow. The medical team promptly provided preliminary care and stabilized the volunteer before arranging for his transfer to a private hospital in Chiang Mai for specialized treatment and surgery.
The wildlife conservation organization issued a statement explaining that the bear involved in the incident had been under the foundation’s care since its discovery as a stranded animal in 2013. The organization acknowledged the incident and emphasized that the bear had been appropriately managed in accordance with legal guidelines.
Due to various constraints, the foundation had sought external assistance in caring for the bear after its initial rescue from Doi Pha Dang National Park, Chiang Dao District.
Authorities Investigating
The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of wildlife encounters, even within the confines of conservation efforts. While the tourist’s actions may have saved his life, it serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with working closely with animals, particularly in wildlife rescue and conservation initiatives.
Local authorities are conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident to ensure compliance with wildlife protection regulations and safety protocols. The volunteer’s brave decision to amputate his own arm underscores the challenges and dangers that individuals may face when engaging in wildlife conservation activities.
The injured tourist is currently undergoing medical treatment at a private hospital in Chiang Mai, where surgeons will assess the possibility of reconstructive procedures. The wildlife conservation foundation is cooperating fully with the investigation and providing support to the injured volunteer and his family during this difficult time.
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