Scary moments were experienced in Licola during a performance by the M. Orfei Circus, where a trainer struck the lions with platforms and whips. Spectators, particularly those in the front row, were frightened by the felines' agitation, which even struck the cage bars. The incident occurred on December 23rd and prompted the circus to explain that the trainer was trying to separate two males fighting over a female in heat.
Video of the incident shows the trainer throwing a platform at a lion and using a whip as the animals move rapidly. Although no injuries were reported, the violent handling of the lions has sparked controversy and criticism of the circus on social media.
Isabella Riccardo, councilor for animal welfare in the municipality of Giugliano, expressed her “deep disappointment” over the incident, questioning whether the trainer was acting out of fear or whether the situation could have been avoided. She stressed the importance of combating the exploitation of animals for entertainment, saying that circus animals are prisoners and deprived of their habitat.
In response to the accusations, the circus released a video in which the trainer explains that the aggression between the lions was caused by jealousy for the female. He reassured that the animals are healthy and that a veterinarian has already examined the lions.
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The situation of the M. Orfei circus is very worrying, such violent methods should not be used to manage animals. Lions are noble creatures and deserve respect and care, not whips and platforms.