WATCH: Chinese animal handlers under fire for ‘mistreating’ panda cubs
Pandas are arguably one of the most adorable-looking creatures in the world and is beloved internationally.
However, a clip showing Chinese zoo handlers seemingly abusing panda cubs has sparked an outrage online.
Footage captured within the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding in Chengdu, Sichuan, China, revealed disturbing imagery of handlers being physically harsh towards the bears.
The viral clip showed how two breeders entered the panda enclosure and were recorded throwing the poor animals violently on the ground, dragging them across the floor, grabbing at their fur and skin, and yelling at them.
Guo Jingpeng, one of the handlers in the video, aired his side and explained how panda cubs are actually stronger and more dangerous than the public realizes.
“The cub bit my hand really hard,” he told the Chinese media, as relayed by the BBC. “Its teeth cut into my flesh and my hand started bleeding.”
Furthermore, Guo said he only pushed the bear out of instinct, as the animal once again tried to sink its teeth on his leg.
Despite his explanation, netizens in China are now calling for Guo’s resignation, while others are now questioning the legitimacy of the breeding facility as a whole.
The research base, meanwhile, has yet to address the controversy and it remains unclear whether the men involved will face charges. Khristian Ibarrola/JB
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