In a current investigation carried out by animal safety nonprofit Girl Freethinker (LFT) in collaboration with acclaimed photojournalist Aaron Gekoski, distressing revelations have emerged in regards to the appalling situations confronted by orangutans in Thai zoos.
The findings expose a grim actuality, with the primates residing in small, unsuitable enclosures, enduring bodily abuse, and being subjected to degrading performances for human leisure.
The investigation, carried out at 5 completely different zoos in Thailand in September 2023, uncovered a disturbing panorama of neglect and cruelty.
The pictures captured through the go to depict orangutans residing in filthy, barren enclosures surrounded by trash, mendacity listlessly on the chilly flooring of their concrete pens, and being fed inappropriate objects similar to baggage of potato chips.
Maybe much more shockingly, the investigation revealed cases of orangutans being pressured to take part in degrading reveals, together with “orangutan boxing” matches.
The animals have been seen clinging desperately to the metallic bars of their enclosures, a stark testomony to their misery.
One handler was noticed mistreating an orangutan named Tanja, utilizing tough dealing with strategies similar to tugging on her arms, pulling her into place, and chaining her.
Much more regarding was the revelation that orangutans have been coerced into posing for “selfies,” which concerned inappropriate contact with vacationers, together with groping of breasts and groins. Girl Freethinker strongly condemns these practices, emphasizing the inherent cruelty and disrespect for the well-being of those clever animals.
Nina Jackel, the founder and president of Girl Freethinker, expressed deep concern in regards to the state of affairs, stating, “Orangutans deserve higher than to be pressured to carry out and pose for the amusement of people.” She is asking on Thai officers to take decisive motion by banning pressured selfies with orangutans and placing an finish to all wild animal performances instantly.
A primate professional, Nedim C Buyukmihci, V.M.D., co-founder, and veterinary advisor of Motion for Primates, reviewed the footage obtained by LFT. He commented on the evident bodily and psychological struggling skilled by the orangutans in Thailand, calling it a “unhappy indictment of the inhumanity of individuals in direction of these critically endangered nice apes.”
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This text by Trinity Sparke was first printed by One Inexperienced Planet on 17 November 2023. Picture Credit score :Credit score: Girl Freethinker.