Tiger Attack Avoided: US Woman Climbs Fence and Comes Inches from Being Bitten

LOOK: Bridgeton Police want to identify this woman, who climbed over the tiger enclosure’s wooden fence at the Cohanzick Zoo “and began enticing the tiger, almost getting bit by putting her hand through the wire enclosure.” 1/4 pic.twitter.com/DPRFi5xFg1

— Steve Keeley (@KeeleyFox29) August 21, 2024

John Medica, Director of Recreation and Public Affairs for Bridgeton, emphasized that ensuring the safety of both the animals and the visitors is a top priority. He stated that any actions endangering these interests would be dealt with seriously. The zoo’s website notes that it houses two Bengal tigers, Rishi and Mahesha, who were brought in as cubs in 2016 and now weigh nearly 500 pounds each.

Bengal tigers, also known as Indian tigers, are an endangered species with only around 3,500 remaining in the wild as of October 2022. The zoo’s website describes the tigers as having grown from their initial 20-pound size into formidable animals.

The incident has prompted significant public reaction, with many expressing shock and concern on social media. Some users criticized the zoo for not having more stringent safety measures, while others were stunned by the woman’s reckless behavior. The Bridgeton Police Department is seeking assistance from the public to identify the individual involved in this dangerous stunt.