Viral Video Exposes Tiger Photo Trend in Thailand

A video showcasing a photo shoot at Tiger World Thailand, located approximately 60 miles from Bangkok, has gained significant attention on X, racking up nearly five million views. In the clip, an American tourist is seen posing with a tiger's paws resting on his shoulders, while anxious zookeepers distract the animal using milk bottles. The zoo charges more than $200 for these photo opportunities, which are advertised on its Instagram account. The Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) advises against visiting tiger entertainment facilities, highlighting animal cruelty, including the separation of cubs from their mothers at just two to three weeks, declawing, and excessive labor. Incidents like a 2025 mauling at Tiger Kingdom in Phuket and a raid at Tiger Temple revealing 40 deceased cubs highlight the dangers involved.