UPDATE: Jamaica Zoo responds to viral lion-biting video
A screen grab of a video showing the zookeeper attempting to pet the lion, who eventually bit off his finger leaving visitors stunned.

ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — Jamaica Zoo Attractions has responded to a video which went viral over the weekend showing a zoo attendant’s finger being bitten by a lion at the St Elizabeth-based facility.

In a media released on Sunday, the management of the facility said it prides itself with the love, care and professional treatment of animals.

The company identified the injured man as a “contractor”.

“The actions displayed in a video by a contractor to Jamaica Zoo, is tragic and do not represent the safety procedures and policies that must be adhered to at all times at Jamaica Zoo,” the release read in part.

The company said it is currently reviewing the video with a view of preventing any future recurrences.

“It is an unfortunate event that should never have happened, and we the family of Jamaica Zoo are doing everything to assist the gentleman in moving forward. We do hope you continue to support Jamaica Zoo. We have always been and will continue to be a safe place for you and your family to visit,” the release said.

Visitors to the facility were on Friday left in shock after witnessing the zoo attendant’s finger being severed by the lion.

READ: WATCH: Visitors stunned after zoo attendant’s finger bitten off by lion at Jamaica Zoo

Kasey Williams

Now you can read the Jamaica Observer ePaper anytime, anywhere. The Jamaica Observer ePaper is available to you at home or at work, and is the same edition as the printed copy available at https://bit.ly/epaper-login

HOUSE RULES

  1. We welcome reader comments on the top stories of the day. Some comments may be republished on the website or in the newspaper; email addresses will not be published.
  2. Please understand that comments are moderated and it is not always possible to publish all that have been submitted. We will, however, try to publish comments that are representative of all received.
  3. We ask that comments are civil and free of libellous or hateful material. Also please stick to the topic under discussion.
  4. Please do not write in block capitals since this makes your comment hard to read.
  5. Please don't use the comments to advertise. However, our advertising department can be more than accommodating if emailed: advertising@jamaicaobserver.com.
  6. If readers wish to report offensive comments, suggest a correction or share a story then please email: community@jamaicaobserver.com.
  7. Lastly, read our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy