In a dramatic and alarming incident captured on surveillance footage, a Siberian tiger rammed into a farm gate in China’s Heilongjiang province, narrowly missing a farmer who had just closed it moments before the attack. The harrowing encounter has raised serious concerns among local residents and authorities alike.
The incident occurred when Zhao, a 65-year-old cattle farmer, was caught off guard by the sudden force of the tiger’s impact. Zhao had just closed the gate to secure his livestock when the tiger collided with it, injuring his hand. Zhao was immediately rushed to the hospital where surgery was required to save his left hand. His son claimed that two tigers were roaming freely in the area, though authorities have yet to confirm the exact number or whether the tigers have been captured.
Surveillance footage from the farm shows the tiger charging at the gate with immense force, only seconds after Zhao had safely closed it. The video, which has since gone viral on social media, has sparked concern among local communities, prompting authorities to issue urgent warnings.
Authorities have urged residents to report any sightings of the tigers and take extra precautions to protect their livestock. Notices have been distributed across the region advising locals to secure their animals, organize patrols, and remain vigilant, especially during the early morning and dusk hours when Siberian tigers are most active.
One official notice emphasized that Siberian tigers are not typically aggressive towards humans, stating, “Siberian tigers can coexist with humans and are not typically aggressive,” but still advised locals to avoid close encounters and to exercise caution.
This incident is part of a concerning trend of tiger encounters in Heilongjiang province, raising fears of increased human-wildlife conflict. In response, officials have called for enhanced safety measures in the region to minimize the risk of further attacks.
Siberian tigers, one of the most endangered species in the world, are protected in China, with only around 70 known to live in the wild. In an effort to protect these magnificent animals and their habitats, China established the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park in 2021, spanning 14,100 square kilometers across Heilongjiang and Jilin provinces.
In a similar incident earlier this year, a woman at the Cohanzick Zoo in New Jersey narrowly escaped injury after breaching safety barriers at the tiger enclosure. Footage from the Bridgeton Police Department showed the woman dangerously reaching through the fence, prompting a tiger to lunge at her hand. Fortunately, she managed to pull away in time, avoiding serious injury.
With the increasing occurrence of such incidents, wildlife experts are urging better management and conservation efforts to ensure the safety of both humans and tigers, while also preserving the species in its natural habitat.
Sources By Agencies
