PETA Statement on Tiger Deaths at Vietnamese Facilities Due to Bird Flu

PETA Statement on Tiger Deaths at Vietnamese Facilities Due to Bird Flu

The deaths of 47 tigers, three lions, and a panther at My Quynh Safari and Vuon Xoai Zoo amid Vietnam’s bird flu outbreak are tragic and highlight the risks of keeping wild animals in captivity. In their natural habitat, tigers roam territories of up to 1,000 square kilometers in an environment that’s spatially complex and dynamic, in stark contrast to confinement inside barren enclosures at zoos. Keeping animals to zoos exposes them to diseases and stress they wouldn’t face in the wild, putting their lives at risk.

 

The exploitation of wild animals also puts global human health at risk by increasing the likelihood of another pandemic. Zoonotic diseases such as SARS, HIV, Ebola, and COVID-19, which can jump to humans from other species, have already shown us the devastating consequences of exploiting wild animals.

 

PETA always stands ready and willing to assist with facilitating the transfer of animals to accredited sanctuaries and urges everyone to avoid facilities that exploit wild animals for profit. By refusing to buy a ticket to these exhibits, consumers can help create a more compassionate future and help end the exploitation of tigers and other animals displayed in pens, cages, or tanks.

Please attribute this statement to PETA Senior Vice President Jason Baker.