Phuket Zoo’s Unexpected “Animal Rescue” Flash‑Mob
What’s the Scoop?
By the time the COVID‑19 wave knocked Thailand’s tourist boat off-course, the Phuket Zoo had to hit the brakes. Without the usual throngs of visitors, the zoo ran out of cash and had to shut its gates in late 2021.
Fast forward to June 7th, and the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) swoops in to pick up the last leftover critters that had been left hanging on.
The “Stuck” Animals
- 11 tigers – all the striped stars that didn’t get a free pass back to the savanna.
- 2 bears – the grizzly twins who were still living under the zoo’s roof.
Why They’re Stuck
Managed by Edwin Wiek, the founder of WFFT, these animals can’t just walk back into the wild. They’ll be taken to a specialized rescue centre in Petchaburi province, where they’ll get the care they need.
Tourism’s Rough Ride
Travel in Thailand hit a hard 18‑month pause because of the pandemic. The national goal this year? 5 to 15 million arrivals. While the world is slowly picking up, the zoo’s animals are getting a much-needed second chance.
Thinking Ahead
Once the tourists come back and the economy lifts, the WFFT will keep an eye on how best to help these ferocious friends. For now, the animals are on a new, brighter and safer path.
