Gazelle Nearly Dies After Eating Visitor Trash at Ramat Gan Safari

A gazelle at the Ramat Gan Safari in central Israel was saved at the last moment after ingesting trash left behind by visitors, prompting an urgent appeal from the zoo ahead of the intermediate days of the Sukkot holiday. A video released by the safari shows the gazelle chewing on discarded waste.

Safari staff noticed the animal's distress and intervened, preventing a potentially fatal incident. According to the safari's spokesperson, Hila Feldman Gra, such ingestions can lead to choking, intestinal blockages, and death. The zoo highlighted past cases where ibexes died after consuming plastic bags and waste, including one instance where a kilogram and a half of bags and wet wipes were found in an ibex's stomach.

With thousands of families expected to visit the safari and other nature sites during the upcoming holiday, the zoo is emphasizing the dangers of littering. "We are asking, and emphasizing again, especially ahead of the intermediate days: Do not throw trash!" Feldman Gra stated. "Not wet wipes, not diapers, not bags, and not snack wrappers. If there is no trash can nearby, take your garbage with you."

The appeal extends to all nature travelers, reminding them that what is considered mere litter to humans can be a matter of life and death for wildlife. The safari also showcased enrichment activities for its chimpanzees, demonstrating their commitment to animal welfare, but stressed that visitor-left trash poses a significant threat.