At the Tashkent Zoo, a visitor threw stones at a lion and porcupines. Video

The Tashkent Zoo is searching for a man who threw stones at a lion and porcupines. Zoo administration released video footage of the incident, which occurred on August 13.

The footage shows a visitor throwing stones toward the enclosures. His actions could have injured a lion named Alex and the porcupines, which are kept in an open enclosure, making the stones especially dangerous. A child was nearby and, observing the incident, began to imitate him. Judging by the video, the man himself seemed to enjoy it and even applauded himself after his "successful" throws.

Following the incident, zoo staff examined the porcupines to ensure they were not injured. The identity of the offender is being established through CCTV footage.

Zoo administration emphasizes that prompt information from visitors helps to quickly respond to such situations. Witnesses of cruel or inappropriate treatment of animals are asked to immediately report it to staff or call +998 71 289 16 01. Zoo staff vow to continue to document such violations and take measures to protect the animals.

This is not the first such incident the zoo has publicly reported. Previously, a visitor spat water into the white lion enclosure, later admitting his guilt and apologizing.