A senior tiger handler is currently in serious but stable condition following an attack by a tiger at a zoo in Queensland.
During a tiger show on Tuesday afternoon, the large cat became “overexcited” and bit its 30-year-old male trainer on the neck and shoulder while playing.
According to Australia Zoo director Wes Mennon, coworkers nearby witnessed the incident and assisted in pulling the trainer away from the tiger.
“When the incident occurred, our emergency response team was on the scene right away. Their actions were both calm and professional. I commend them,” he stated.
The Department of Community Safety reported that the trainer incurred two significant puncture wounds and was airlifted to a Brisbane hospital in serious but stable condition.
He was conscious and breathing when being loaded into the helicopter.
Mr. Mennon mentioned that the trainer had nine years of experience working with big cats and had raised the tiger since it was a cub at the zoo.
“Our main concern is the handler’s wellbeing, as he is a treasured member of our Australia Zoo family,” he expressed.
“We are fully supporting the handler and his family.”
Furthermore, Mr. Mennon indicated that a comprehensive investigation was being undertaken by Australia Zoo in collaboration with workplace health and safety authorities.
