The tragic incident at Safari World Zoo
on September 10, 2025,
Should not be dismissed
as a rare accident.
The death of a zookeeper
mauled by lions is a reminder that
caring for dangerous wild animals
requires proper training,
resources and experience.
Some cafe owners in Bangkok use lion cubs as attractions to lure customers keen to take photos with the animals.
Animal lovers flaunt them on TikTok and other social media platforms.
Despite their adorable appearance,
lions are predators.
(According to the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation)
Despite last year’s temporary ban
on lion imports due to safety concerns,
individuals can bypass rules
by buying from illegal farms
or poachers.
The department must launch thorough investigations into both zoos and private facilities to ensure the animals are properly cared for.
Those failing to meet standards should be required to surrender them.
The department must strengthen safety protocols and animal welfare regulations for both private and commercial zoos.
Thailand's zoo animal welfare record already faces criticism.
The most notable case being Bua Noi, a gorilla kept for over three decades in a rooftop zoo at Bangkok's Pata Department Store.
Thailand continues to serve as a hub for wild animal trafficking and breeding — whether alive, hunted for ivory or slaughtered for use in traditional Chinese medicine.
Authorities must clamp down on poaching and the illegal wildlife trade.
Without serious and consistent enforcement, tragedies like this will continue to happen.