Samui Aquarium & Tiger Zoo
Overview
3.6
Samui Aquarium and Tiger Zoo is located on Koh Samui. As the name suggests, it has a large aquarium alongside a zoo full of tigers and leopards. There are a number of shows that take place in the zoo as well and these include a tiger show, sea lion show, otter show and bird show. Their website has announced that they are undergoing upgrades, something that was evident when our researchers visited for the second time. The website also states that they take the welfare and happiness of their animals seriously, through their living quarters and the carefully chosen animal lover staff, though this is not so evident.
Tourist Interactions?
Cages/Enclosures
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There are three enclosures for the tigers
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Each held a pond and platform but no enrichment
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Numbers of tigers occupying the enclosure ranged from one to three
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Some natural vegetation, grass and earth substrate
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No place to hide from the public, but shaded areas from sun
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Cages were cement-floored
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Measured 1x2m
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Water was provided
Physical & Mental Health
Physical
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Body condition was adequate
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Tigers were declawed and lameness was observed
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Staff, for the most part, appeared friendly/caring with the exception of the tiger show
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Whips were used in the tiger show
Mental
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Tiger for photos was calm and relaxed
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Tigers in enclosures ranged from disinterest to aggression
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Tigers in hidden cages chuffed
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Pacing was observed
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Tigers in show were stressed and aggressive
What we are doing to help
At this time we are raising awareness for the situation of the captive tigers in Thailand through education of the public and through a number of different petitions.
Head to our Petition zone to see how you can help.