citation_inspection: 33420

On Thursday, October 6, 2016 the licensee was injured by the Asiatic black bear when attempting to feed it. The bear has been quarantined for a second time (the first time was due to the handling incident cited in the August 8, 2016 inspection report). The licensee required a hospital visit and follow up medical care. After the injury the licensee has had difficulty conducting routine husbandry tasks such as lifting the guillotine gate to allow the bear access to her den, and as a result she has been denied access to this portion of her enclosure. On the second day of the inspection, inspectors observed the licensee feeding the cougar. The licensee, standing approximately one foot away from the primary enclosure, dropped the meat right next to a six to eight inch gap between the flooring and fencing, then pushed the meat into the enclosure by hand. The cougar lunged at the meat and snatched it away before the licensee could move out of the vicinity. Although there was no injury, this is an extremely dangerous practice and demonstrates insufficient knowledge of the behavior, speed, and strength of cougars. All licensees who maintain wild or exotic animals must demonstrate adequate experience and knowledge of the species they maintain in order to provide appropriate handling that minimizes distress, discomfort and potential harm. Correct by December 15, 2016.