A performing bear attacked a zookeeper in front of a stunned crowd.
Footage showed two muzzled moon bears standing on hoverboards as they performed tricks for snacks.
The zookeepers took the bears to the stage area to jump several hurdles, but one of them was more interested in the keeper’s snacks.
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As the first bear successfully navigated the hurdles, the second started to attack the keeper.
It wrestled him to the ground in front of shocked onlookers before attempting to gnaw at his torso.
The keeper struggled on the ground as several colleagues rushed to his aid, as reported by Need To Know.
They eventually managed to bring the animal under control before dragging it backstage.
The shocking scenes were filmed at Hangzhou Safari Park, located southwest of Shanghai, China, yesterday (7 Dec).
Afterwards, a park spokesperson said that neither the keeper nor the bear was harmed in the attack.
They said the animal became excited when it saw the keeper’s bag of apples and carrots, and pounced on him to get at them.
The keeper only sustained minor cuts and scrapes.
He said the attack was a reminder that he needs to be more careful handling the bear in the future.
The park also announced that they have cancelled the black bear show with immediate effect.
The bear in question will be monitored to ensure its physical and mental well-being.
The park will also review its management and emergency response protocols to prevent such an incident from occurring again.
“We sincerely appreciate the concern and support from all netizens,” they added.
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