PETA Statement on Hamilton Zoo Tiger Attack

PETA was saddened but not surprised to hear that a zookeeper has been killed by a tiger at Hamilton Zoo. Unfortunately, this is just the latest in a long list of such incidents around the world, including another fatal attack in Poland just days ago.

Zoos give people the false idea that these animals are little more than cuddly kitties who can be used and abused for our entertainment.

But captivity does not extinguish all the instincts that tigers follow. Attacks by captive big cats on people – which occur with staggering regularity – illustrate the profound levels of stress, anxiety and agitation that these animals experience every day of their lives.

Captivity is a living hell for them and denies them the opportunity to engage in any of the activities that give their lives meaning. No animal can thrive in such an artificial and a stressful environment.

PETA sends our condolences to the keeper's family and hopes this incident will make Hamilton Zoo, as well as zoos around the world, reconsider their continued confinement of big cats.

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