We welcome the confiscation of the tigers from the ‘Tiger Temple’ as a significant step forward in protecting wild animals from the inherent cruelty involved in wildlife tourism
Five tigers were confiscated in January and another five in February. Tigers will be removed in batches of five per month until all have been rehomed.
Only a removal of tigers will stop the exploitation and ensure that no further tigers will be bred for profit at the Tiger Temple, and we congratulate the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) for taking this enforcement action.
Releasing the tigers into the wild is unlikely to be a viable option given that they lack the necessary skills to survive.
The confiscated tigers will be housed in government-run confiscation centers. We encourage the authorities to continue seeking ways to ensure best possible care for the confiscated tigers and any other victim of wildlife tourism and trade.
World Animal Protection's Nicola Beynona, said, “Tigers at the Tiger Temple are separated from their mothers at an early age, and forced into submission through cruel training to make them docile enough to interact with tourists.
“The living conditions for these tigers are appalling – barren, concrete cages, and being used as tourist photo props for hours on end.
“We know that most people who pay for a wild animal encounter do so because they love animals and are simply unaware of the cruelty that goes on behind the scenes.
“If you can hug it, ride, it or take a selfie with it, there is a strong chance the animal has suffered cruelty, and the experience should be avoided.
“The complex undertaking of re-homing 147 tigers in adequate conditions highlights the ongoing cruelty in breeding wild animals for profit.”
World Animal Protection is encouraging tourists and travel companies to avoid animal cruelty in tourism. More than 250,000 people worldwide have taken the pledge to be animal-friendly tourists - you can join them. Pledge now to be an animal-friendly tourist.
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We know that most people who pay for a wild animal encounter do so because they love animals and are simply unaware of the cruelty that goes on behind the scenes.