In response to a shocking incident involving a tiger attack on a tourist, Thai authorities have mandated the cancellation of tiger walking activities at a popular zoo in Sri Racha, Chonburi Province. The decision follows the circulation of a viral video showing the tiger pouncing on an Indian tourist during a photo session, which raised serious concerns about safety protocols at the facility.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred on May 26, 2025, at a tiger zoo operated by Sri Racha Crocodile Farm and Products Co., Ltd. Initially reported to have taken place in Phuket, the actual event was clarified by the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. The Director-General, Attapon Charoenchansa, ordered an inspection of the zoo after the video gained widespread attention.
During the inspection, officials found that the zoo was still operating normally. The incident involved a group of three Indian tourists, one of whom participated in the tiger walking activity. As the tourist attempted to take photos, he embraced the tiger and petted its head, which startled the animal. Despite the handler’s attempts to redirect the tiger’s attention, it pounced on the tourist, resulting in minor injuries.
Medical Response and Costs
The injured tourist was promptly transported to Phyathai Hospital, where he received treatment for leg injuries resembling dog bites. The zoo covered all medical expenses, totaling 202,046 baht (approximately $6,175), which included treatment, return flights for the tourist and his companions, and ongoing medical care in India.
Regulatory Actions
Following the incident, the Department of National Parks has taken decisive action. They have ordered the permanent cancellation of tiger walking activities at the zoo and mandated improvements in safety measures. These include the installation of electric batons for handlers, additional warning signs, and enhanced training for staff to prevent inappropriate interactions between tourists and tigers.
The decision has been met with support from animal rights groups, including WWF Thailand, which have long opposed the captivity and exploitation of wild animals in such settings. The cancellation of these activities is seen as a step towards better animal welfare and tourist safety.
Conclusion
The incident at Sri Racha Tiger Zoo serves as a critical reminder of the risks associated with close encounters with wild animals. As authorities continue to enforce stricter regulations, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of both tourists and the animals themselves. The cancellation of tiger walking activities reflects a growing awareness of the ethical implications of using wild animals for entertainment and the need for responsible tourism practices in Thailand.