A disturbing video from Nanning Zoo in Guangxi, China, has gone viral after it showed a chimpanzee allegedly smoking a cigarette. The footage, which has drawn widespread criticism, raises serious concerns about visitor supervision and animal welfare practices at the facility.
The Incident
In the undated clip, the chimpanzee is seen sitting beneath rocks, holding a cigarette in one hand and taking several puffs. The unsettling behavior, captured on camera, has left netizens shocked and questioning how such a scenario could occur at a reputable zoo.
Authorities suspect that the cigarette may have been inadvertently or intentionally dropped by a visitor into the animal’s enclosure. Regardless of the cause, the incident highlights potential lapses in supervision that allowed a harmful object to come into contact with a vulnerable animal.
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Zoo Response and Investigation
In response to the viral video, zoo management has launched an investigation to determine how the cigarette ended up in the chimpanzee’s reach. Officials have urged visitors to exercise greater responsibility and refrain from throwing or dropping objects in animal enclosures. Steps are reportedly being taken to enhance visitor awareness and enforce stricter safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Public Reaction
The video has stirred considerable controversy online. Many social media users expressed their alarm, with comments questioning whether the animal might be exhibiting signs of stress. One viewer asked, “Is he stressed, thus smoking?” while another decried, “It’s sad people teach them to do that and it’s just awful.” An Instagram page, ‘Travly’, also shared multiple reactions, further amplifying the public’s concern over the incident.
Broader Implications
Animal welfare advocates warn that such incidents can have detrimental effects on zoo animals’ health and behavior. The appearance of the cigarette and the act of smoking itself are seen as serious indicators of potential neglect in monitoring visitor interactions with animals. As the investigation unfolds, both the zoo and relevant authorities are expected to review existing safety measures to ensure the well-being of the animals under their care.
