Animal welfare activists draw attention to Thailand's Pata Zoo

By Seda Sevencan

ISTANBUL (AA) – Bangkok's Pata Zoo is facing criticism from animal rights activists over the alleged inhumane treatment of the zoo residents.

Located on top of a mall in the Thai metropolis, Pata Zoo, a private collection of exotic animals, has operated as a tourist attraction since 1983. However, for years it has been the focus of Thai animal rights activists, who have accused the zoo of inhumane treatment of animals.

In one high-profile case of the zoo’s residents, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) as well as American singer-superstar Cher have offered to rehome Bua Noi, the “world's loneliest gorilla,” who has been sitting in a cage in the zoo for 30 years, much of that time alone.