A zoo in south China is asking visitors to stop feeding its raccoons after they have grown obese.
Staff members of Guangzhou Zoo became concerned for the health of their raccoons after their weight ballooned to more than 18 lbs, according to Chinese reports. The average weight of an adult raccoon is about 11 lbs.
The zoo is home to about 40 raccoons and more than half of them now need to lose weight, the park said.
Staff members of Guangzhou Zoo became concerned for the health of their raccoons after their weight ballooned to more than 18 lbs, according to Chinese reports
Footage released by China News show several portly raccoons, distinguished by their black mask across the eyes and bushy tails, lolling around their enclosure at the park in Guangdong
Visitors are seen throwing food at the raccoons without permission at Guangzhou Zoo
Footage released by China News show several portly raccoons, distinguished by their black mask across the eyes and bushy tails, lolling around their enclosure at the park in Guangdong province.
The adorable furry animals are filmed looking eagerly at the excited visitors, who are prompted to toss their food at the animals.
Volunteer staff are also seen patrolling the area holding up 'no feeding' signs and reminding tourists not to throw food at the animals.
But many ignore the staff and the signs, Guangzhou Zoo caretaker Fang Zehao said. The zoo is considering building a taller fence around the enclosure to stop the unruly behaviour.
