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Star Tiger Zoo

Overview

3.8

Star Tiger Zoo lies in the province of Chayaphum, almost in the middle of nowhere, a 20-minute drive out of the town itself. On any visit performed by our researchers, there has never been that many people, with the first trip only having a school group. Apparently this zoo has been running at a loss for many years now and is also, according to a recent Bangkok post article, the front for some serious tiger trading. On any of the visits, this was not noticed by our researchers though that was to be expected. There was however an inordinate number of raccoons in many cages spread about the grounds.

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As of 24th July, the zo staff reported the facility closed with tigers and other animals moving to Khon Kaen. It is unclear if the zoo is simply closed due to Covid-19 regulations or permanently. The waterpark was open. Therefore date on this page refers to 2019.

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Tourist Interactions?

Cages/Enclosures

  • Each area comprised of a display cage set inside a larger more natural (though small) environment

  • Each contained a pond for bathing

  • Clean water was provided in each area

  • Grass and natural vegetation in small patches in the larger areas

  • No enrichment

  • Caves and some platforms as areas to climb, small ponds

  • Tigers in display cages were on concrete only. it is unknown whether they get rotated

  • Tigers in natural areas have a den, which they can hide in from the public

Physical & Mental Health

Physical

  • White tigers were clearly inbred

  • All bar one female appeared to be in good health

  • Tigers are declawed

  • Injuries present - loss of teeth, limping, drooling (sign of pain)

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Mental

  • Pacing observed in some of the tigers

  • Uninterested and unresponsive tigers

  • Two white tigers were very interactive and friendly. Clearly used to human interaction and like it.

Gallery

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.

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Head to our Petition zone to see how you can help.

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