China’s Grandview Zoo, housed in a Guangzhou shopping mall, is under scrutiny, with some calling it the most tragic facility of its kind on the planet. Animals including beluga whales, wolves, and walruses are kept in small environments that are far too small and often entirely lacking in enrichment features.
Drawing particular attention is, “the saddest polar bear in the world,” which the charitable organization Animals Asia says, “suffers for selfies.” Dave Neal, the animal welfare director for the group, said of the arctic creature’s environment, “This bear has no peace and nothing natural to take comfort in.”
A petition started by the organization asking for the zoo’s closure has gathered hundreds of thousands of signatures.
While Animals Asia doubts a complete shutdown will happen, it is committed to ensuring desperately needed changes be made. Grandview Zoo is said to be working on improvements.
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