Zookeeper Killed in Lion Attack at Thailand’s Safari World

A tragic incident occurred on September 10, 2023, when a zookeeper was fatally attacked by a group of lions at Safari World Bangkok, one of Asia’s largest open-air zoos. The zoo, known for offering lion and tiger feeding experiences for approximately 1,200 baht (about US$37) per person, is now facing scrutiny regarding animal safety protocols and ownership practices.

According to Sadudee Punpugdee, wildlife protection director of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, the zookeeper was mauled by six or seven lions after he exited his vehicle. Witnesses reported that the victim, who had over thirty years of experience at the facility, stood with his back turned to the animals shortly before the attack. Tavatchai Kanchanarin, a doctor visiting the zoo, detailed the harrowing moment: “He stood for about three minutes, then a lion walked slowly and grabbed him from the back. He did not scream.”

In response to the incident, Edwin Wiek from the conservation group Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand expressed his condolences on social media, emphasizing the inherent dangers posed by wild animals, even those raised in captivity. He remarked, “This incident should serve as a stark reminder that these animals…still pose a serious threat to human life that can be triggered without warning.”

While the victim’s name has not been publicly disclosed, a senior official at Safari World confirmed that all lions in the park are licensed. “We have rules and we repeat them often as we work with dangerous animals,” he stated. The zoo’s website promotes close encounters with a variety of wildlife, including tigers, lions, bears, and zebras.

The attack raises critical questions about the ethics of lion ownership in Thailand, where the captive lion population has surged in recent years. Currently, there are nearly 500 registered lions in zoos, breeding farms, and other facilities across the country. The animal rights organization, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, issued a statement calling for Safari World to relocate the lions to a sanctuary, noting, “the lions…have done nothing wrong other than exhibit their natural behaviours.”

As investigations continue, the incident has ignited discussions on safety measures in zoos and the responsibilities of facilities that house wild animals. The tragic loss of a dedicated zookeeper highlights the unpredictable nature of wildlife and the serious risks associated with human interaction in these environments.