A tourist has come under heavy criticism online after a video appeared to show her attempting to sit on an injured deer at Japan’s popular Nara Park.
The footage quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing condemnation from animal lovers and local residents who described the behaviour as disrespectful and potentially harmful to the animal.
Authorities have also weighed in on the incident, saying such actions are inappropriate and could endanger both the deer and members of the public.
Video Shows Woman Repeatedly Following Deer
The viral clip showed a woman approaching a deer and leaning her body weight against its back while a companion recorded the encounter.
As the animal attempted to move away, the woman continued following it and appeared determined to maintain contact despite the deer’s efforts to avoid her.
The deer was seen walking away, turning in circles and repositioning itself multiple times, seemingly trying to escape the interaction.
Despite these attempts, the woman continued pursuing the animal while smiling and posing for the camera.
The footage later showed her appearing to lower herself onto the deer’s back before bouncing slightly as the animal stood beneath her.
Eventually, the deer pushed her away using its snout before walking off.
Deer Was Recovering From Previous Injury
The incident sparked even greater outrage after a volunteer familiar with the animal revealed that the deer had previously suffered a serious leg injury.
According to the volunteer, the deer had fractured one of its front legs following a traffic accident and had undergone treatment before returning to the park.
The volunteer, who had reportedly helped care for the animal during its recovery, described the woman’s actions as cruel and insensitive.
He noted that the deer had already endured significant hardship and was trying to adapt to life despite its injury.
His comments gained widespread support online, with many social media users expressing sympathy for the animal.
Netizens Condemn Tourist’s Behaviour
Many Japanese netizens criticised the woman’s actions, with some describing the incident as animal abuse.
Others questioned why anyone would attempt to ride or sit on a wild animal, regardless of whether it was injured.
Several commenters also highlighted potential health risks, noting that wild deer can carry ticks and other parasites.
Some warned that close physical contact with wildlife could expose visitors to diseases and infections.
The incident has reignited discussions about responsible tourism and the treatment of animals at popular attractions.
Authorities Say Actions Were Inappropriate
A spokesperson from the Nara Prefectural Government confirmed that officials were aware of the viral video.
While authorities stopped short of describing the incident as deliberate abuse based solely on the footage, they said the behaviour shown was clearly inappropriate if accurately represented.
The spokesperson stressed that visitors should understand that physical interactions can cause stress or injury to animals.
Officials also warned that tourists risk being bitten, kicked or exposed to parasites when attempting direct contact with wildlife.
Authorities are reportedly stepping up public awareness efforts to encourage visitors to observe the deer from a safe distance.
Nara’s deer hold special cultural significance in Japan and are regarded as national treasures. They have long been protected and are considered an important symbol of the historic city, attracting millions of visitors every year.
The incident has prompted renewed calls for tourists to treat the animals with respect and remember that they are living creatures, not props for photographs or social media content.