The world-renowned Big Cat Rescue sanctuary, made famous by the Netflix series “Tiger King,” was the scene of a serious incident Thursday morning as a volunteer was bitten and severely injured by a tiger. This incident raises critical questions about safety protocols and the potential dangers of interacting with big cats, even in a sanctuary environment.
Kimba, the tiger involved in the attack, latched onto volunteer Candy Couser’s arm, nearly severing it at the shoulder. The incident occurred during feeding time when Couser noticed Kimba was not in his usual enclosure. According to Big Cat Rescue CEO Carole Baskin, Couser opened a clipped gate, reaching in to unclip it, a direct violation of established safety protocols. Baskin emphasized that this action disregarded the sanctuary’s universal signal indicating that gates should not be opened without assistance and that no body parts should ever be placed inside a cage with a cat present.
Kimba, the tiger involved in the attack at Big Cat Rescue (Courtesy of Big Cat Rescue)
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue responded to a trauma alert call from the Tampa sanctuary around 8:30 a.m. Staff and other volunteers worked quickly to control the bleeding before Couser was transported to a hospital with serious injuries. Despite the severity of the attack, Couser has expressed her desire that Kimba not face any repercussions. The tiger will be quarantined for 30 days as a precautionary measure. Baskin stated that Kimba’s behavior was likely triggered by the presence of food.
This incident underscores the inherent risks associated with working with large predators. Even with stringent safety protocols in place, unforeseen circumstances can lead to devastating consequences. While sanctuaries play a crucial role in rescuing and caring for big cats, the incident highlights the delicate balance between ensuring animal welfare and protecting human life.
The timing of the attack coincided with the U.S. House’s vote on the Big Cat Public Safety Act, a bill strongly supported by Baskin. The legislation aims to prohibit the private ownership of big cats and restrict public handling of cubs. Baskin has been a vocal advocate for stricter regulations surrounding big cat ownership, arguing that tragedies like this can happen “in the blink of an eye.” The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers these animals pose and reinforces the need for robust safety measures.
The attack brings back into focus the complex and often controversial world of big cat ownership, highlighted in the Netflix series “Tiger King.” The documentary series chronicled the tumultuous life of Joseph Maldonado-Passage, also known as “Joe Exotic,” a former Oklahoma zookeeper who was convicted of a murder-for-hire plot targeting Baskin. Maldonado-Passage’s accusations against Baskin, including allegations regarding the disappearance of her former husband, Don Lewis, were central to the series. Baskin has vehemently denied these allegations.
This latest incident adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing debate surrounding big cat ownership and the role of sanctuaries. While the focus remains on Couser’s recovery, the attack prompts further discussion about the safety of both animals and humans in these environments. It also emphasizes the importance of continuous review and reinforcement of safety procedures, along with ongoing education and training for anyone working in close proximity to big cats.
The investigation into the incident continues, with authorities examining the circumstances leading up to the attack. This investigation will likely focus on whether established safety protocols were followed and identify any potential areas for improvement. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in shaping future safety regulations and guidelines for big cat sanctuaries and other facilities that house these magnificent but dangerous animals.
The incident at Big Cat Rescue serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the inherent risks involved in interacting with wild animals, even in seemingly controlled environments. It highlights the importance of vigilance, adherence to safety protocols, and the ongoing need for comprehensive regulations to protect both humans and animals. As Couser recovers from her injuries, the broader implications of this event will undoubtedly continue to be discussed and debated within the animal welfare community and beyond. The attack underscores the vital need for continuous improvement in safety practices and the development of more effective strategies to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
