Horrified onlookers captured the moment a zoo performance was derailed after a black bear suddenly pounced on its trainer.
The treatment of animals in zoos and aquariums around the world is a topic which regularly causes outrage on the internet.
Although plenty of zoos do important work when it comes to conservation of endangered species, several people continue to argue that animals don't belong in enclosures at all.
And recent footage captured at a zoo in China will likely reignite such statements.
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The shocking incident, which took place at Hangzhou Wildlife Park in the province of Zhejiang on 6 December, saw the trainers preparing for a show when one of the bears suddenly lunged forward and shoved a trainer to the ground.
Several staff members rush in moments later, attempting to separate the man from the bear with chairs, poles and even a basketball hoop.
Warning: Video contains footage some readers may find upsetting
It's understood that trainers had been guiding the bears, identified as an Asian black bears, through a routine which included twirling on scooters and balancing on hoverboards before the incident occurred.
The man is able to get back to his feet and attempts to approach the bear once again, only for the animal to lunge at him once more.
Hangzhou Wildlife World has since spoken out about the incident, saying that neither the man or the bear sustained injuries and confirmed the act had been cancelled with immediate effect.
The park has also claimed the bear had become excited after spotting a bag of carrots and apples, understood to be a treat the animal was fond of, which the trainer had been carrying at the time.
Officials added that the animal was attempting to grab the treats rather than attack the trainer.
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Meanwhile, shocked visitors can be heard reacting in clips of the incident as the performer on stage stops and the show is halted. One witness even reported seeing the trainer's clothing torn during the attack.
The clip has since caused outrage on social media, as people slam the park for using animals for a performance and alleging further allegations of abuse, while animal rights charity PETA has also condemned the footage.
"When you watch footage from PETA’s investigation into how bears are trained for performances, you begin to understand why incidents like this happen," the charity said in a statement.
"No animal deserves to spend a life in chains and cages. Never support attractions where animals are forced to perform—whether in China or anywhere else."
Authorities in Fuyang District said the affected performance theatre had paused operations and that experts would assess safety measures at the site.
If you see an animal in distress and/or in need of help, contact the RSPCA's national animal cruelty line on 0300 1234 999 from 8am to 5pm seven days a week, or visit their website for further advice.
Topics: Animals, World News
Brenna Cooper