After much research and reading, I have finally found all the information that I was looking for, Repeatedly, the media has said that the fence was too low; the AZA Standards require a 16’ fence.
After reading the 60 page Accreditation Standards, I have yet to find that statement. If someone could point it out to me (chapter and verse, please), I would certainly appreciate it. What I did find was that the AZA requires a perimeter fence of 8’. That’s HALF the height that everyone is citing. It also cites have a suitable barrier, but there is no mention of height or width, if the barrier is a moat.
There is another agency that is also involved with zoos. It is much more specific than the AZA in regards to barriers, fences, and enclosures. It states that tigers should have a 10’ jump wall with a 2—45 degree inward angle or a 12’ jump wall. A wet or dry moat can be substituted for the jump wall. The San Francisco Zoo had a 12.5’ moat wall. Not sure if it had an overhang or not.
Under normal circumstances, tigers do not attack humans. They prefer herbivores. Yes, if food is scarce, the human will do. Zoo animals are fed on a set schedule. This cat was angry and upset, not hungry.
Tigers also prefer to attack from behind, which would explain the blood on the back of the head of one of the brothers. They also will break the neck and/or suffocate the victim. As terrible as it was, Carlos died very quickly given the power of a tiger. Anyone who makes claims that he was tormented for 30 minutes is adding drama to a sad situation.
Finally, zoos, their staff and management try to keep high standards. Zoos are safe when you consider their inhabitants and the number of instances each year.
I did the research. How many people are killed by an animal in a zoo each year? This would include zoos that are not accredited as well as those that are? I’ll post the answer…later.
