Recently, a video filmed at Xixiakou Shendiaoshan Wild Animal Park in Weihai, East China’s Shandong Province has sent shockwaves online. Photo: web

 
Recently, a video filmed at Xixiakou Shendiaoshan Wild Animal Park in Weihai, East China's Shandong Province has sent shockwaves online. In the footage, a tourist throws a cigarette to a black chimpanzee in the park, and the chimpanzee, after taking the cigarette, smokes it skillfully, puffing out clouds of white smoke from his mouth.

The video soon spread like wildfire across the internet.

While some people made jokes about this rare scene, many also expressed deep concerns.

Some netizens said that such behavior would not only cause serious harm to the chimpanzee's health, but also show a disregard for animal protection laws.

In response to this incident, zoo staff said: "We absolutely do not condone this behavior of throwing cigarettes. Now it's time for summer vacation, which means it's the perfect time to visit the park. There are lots of tourists here right now. Staff members have the exciting task of patrolling between several animal areas, ensuring the smooth running of the incredible facility."

In the meantime, the staff workers have promised to make some changes. They're going to step up park management to make sure that incidents like this never happen again and that the animals are always safe and sound.

And, netizens also urged tourists to abide by park regulations, visit public places in a civilized manner, and help maintain a safe and healthy living environment for animals.