In zoo "created" zebras from donkeys in an attempt to attract people (3 photos + 1 video)

Zoo staff say they painted the animals in an attempt to attract more visitors. However, animal rights activists have expressed alarm and are calling for stronger regulations.





A zoo in China's Shandong province is at the centre of a scandal after staff were found to have painted donkeys black and white stripes, passing them off as zebras.



Photos of animals taken at the Zibo City amusement park quickly went viral on social media, sparking a wave of criticism and jokes. Users on Chinese platforms Weibo and Douyin condemned the practice, calling it "misleading" and "unethical."



Zoo officials admitted that they took the step in an attempt to attract more visitors. They assured that the dyes used were safe for animals. However, animal rights activists have expressed concern and called for stricter regulations to prevent such incidents in the future.