In most zoos, we’re used to seeing animals behind bars, their natural behaviors obscured by confinement.
But at China’s Lehe Ledu Wildlife Zoo, the roles are reversed: humans are confined while animals roam free.
Watch the video at the end.
The zoo aims to provide visitors with a unique and immersive experience by allowing animals to move freely while humans observe the safety of caged vehicles. Tourists can get up close to wild animals without risking becoming prey themselves.
Chunks of meat are attached to the outside of vehicles to attract animals, and tourists can even feed lions, tigers, and bears through tiny openings in the cages.
However, some have raised concerns about the proximity between humans and potentially dangerous animals.
Despite the risks, the zoo assures visitors of their safety with warnings to keep their hands and fingers inside the vehicles. The goal is to provide the thrill of being near these majestic creatures without danger.
With other countries like Costa Rica shutting down traditional zoos, will this model of allowing animals to roam free while humans are contained become the new standard?