Woman taking selfies at zoo attacked by jaguar

A woman taking selfies at an Arizona zoo was attacked by a jaguar leaving her with injuries that required medical attention.

According to the Wildlife World Zoo in Litchfield Park,  witnesses watched as the woman crossed over a protective barrier in order to snap a photo when she was attacked by the female jaguar.

“We regret to inform that this evening, before closing there was an incident reported involving a guest, who crossed over the barrier to get a photo, according to eye witnesses. The visitor sustained non-life threatening injuries to their arm from one of our female jaguars. At the request of the family, paramedics were called. At no time was the animal out of its enclosure…please understand why barriers are put in place. Sending prayers to the family tonight. The incident is being fully investigated,” the organization posted on their social media page.

Witnesses stated the jaguar reached out to grab her. Adam Wilkerson, had been at the zoo with his family, according to AZCentral News, and with the help of his mother, was able to distract the jaguar long enough to release the woman. Wilkerson did not see the actual attack and how the woman had come to be so close to the animal.

The zoo reported the jaguar had previously scratched someone as the also crossed the protective barrier, and even though there are substantial barriers installed, people crossing them can very easily find themselves in trouble. The zoo will determine if additional protections need to be put into place.

The zoo has assured the public the jaguar is safe, and no harm will come to her.

“She won’t be put down,” the zoo tweeted to the relief of animal advocates across the country.

Follow the National Pet Rescue on Facebook for the latest animal related news.

The Pet Rescue Report endorses HempMy Pet – CBD products for pets

Enter Rescue10 at checkout for a 10% discount! Your purchase helps support our writing efforts.

Oh my!