A zoo in eastern China has denied allegations of humans dressed in bear costumes, following the circulation of a video featuring a Malayan sun bear standing on its hind legs.
The footage sparked conspiracy theories on social media, prompting the zoo to clarify the situation and defend the authenticity of their animals.
In a statement written from the perspective of the sun bear named “Angela,” zoo officials from Hangzhou addressed the speculation, emphasizing that the bear was indeed real and not a human imposter.
“When it comes to bears, the first thing that comes to mind is a huge figure and amazing power … But not all bears are behemoths and danger personified. We Malayan bears are petite, the smallest bear in the world,’’ said a Malaysian sun bear zookeeper at Hangzhou Zoo.
They urged the public to understand the species better, highlighting that sun bears have a unique posture and physical characteristics that might be mistaken for human-like behavior.
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The Guardian reported that while the viral video garnered attention, it also shed light on the broader issue of misrepresentations in Chinese zoos. Past incidents involving dogs disguised as wild animals have led to public ridicule and criticism.
Therefore, the zoo’s effort to dispel any doubts and clarify the authenticity of their animals is crucial in maintaining public trust.
Sun bears, often forgotten and facing serious threats in the wild, serve a vital role in their ecosystems. Conservation efforts and increased awareness are necessary to protect this unique and endangered species from various challenges, including habitat loss and the cruel bear bile trade.
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As people become more educated about sun bears, their crucial role in the environment and the need for their protection can be better understood and supported.
