Tiger Kingdom, Phuket
Overview
5.8
Tiger Kingdom in Phuket is the second Tiger Kingdom venue offering tiger interaction opportunities. Located in the heart of Phuket, this is first and foremost a business which is evident by the impressive entrance way, the array of computers lined up with options for guest to peruse and the very enthusiastic helpful staff who immediately latch onto you as soon as you arrive. The prices are high but no one around seems to care as they get their numbers and are processed like a factory line through the tiger photo ops.
Tourist Interactions?
Cages/Enclosures
-
Each area comprised of an outside area four cages leading into it
-
Each contained a pond for bathing
-
Grass and natural vegetation present though trees were wrapped in electric wiring and grass was protected by brick through which it grew
-
No enrichment items
-
Some platforms both inside and outside
-
Inside cages were concrete floored and barren apart from a wooden platform
Physical & Mental Health
Physical
-
Excessive numbers of tigers, some too many per enclosure/cage
-
Some clear health problems, probably from inbreeding - crossed eyes and blindness
-
No signs of pain or injury observered
-
Small cubs hit with sticks to behave
Mental
-
For the most part no stereotypy observed in those interacting with the public but pacing was observed in those not interacting with the public
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.