A video recorded at a zoo in Sichuan province, China, sparked outrage on social media by showing a visibly malnourished tiger that could barely walk in its enclosure.
In the footage, the animal’s ribs and hips are clearly visible as it struggles to climb a small slope, prompting criticism over its condition and possible care standards.
After the case went viral, local authorities carried out an inspection and said it is a Siberian tiger between 16 and 18 years old that had reportedly been sick recently. According to the zoo, its low weight is not due to a lack of food, but rather to health problems and its advanced age.
Authorities indicated that the animal is under monitoring and have not ruled out transferring it to another center with better conditions if necessary.