Tianma Ranch’s hippo “Ah He” sparks controversy – is an animal attraction the best choice for family trips?

By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Network Editorial Team

Tianma Ranch’s male hippopotamus “Ah He” unexpectedly died suddenly on the morning of the 29th, and the incident in which he jumped from a vehicle shocked the whole of Taiwan. Currently, Tianma Ranch has obtained assistance from Taipei City Zoo to conduct further autopsy to determine the true cause of death. Since the incident occurred, in addition to the Taichung City Agriculture Bureau believing that Tianma Ranch cannot escape negligence, many netizens have also tallied past operational shortcomings of Tianma Ranch and launched a boycott campaign, hoping that people will no longer base their happiness on the suffering of animals.

Located in Taichung City, Tianma Ranch is a themed animal farm park that houses many animals, aiming to be a great place for family fun. In addition to the currently most talked-about hippo Ah He, it had previously gained attention for keeping the alpaca — whose name became a viral sensation due to its homophonic pun — and its cute appearance attracted many visitors. However, it was also criticized for the inhumane “alpaca birth show,” sparking widespread condemnation. Taichung Mayor Lin Jia-long also posted, saying “Ah He may not be an isolated case,” expressing active intervention and thorough investigation, hoping to bring justice to Ah He and completely resolve the issues with animals at the ranch.

In addition to the need for the ranch to improve its shortcomings, zoos are among the most frequently visited attractions for family trips. But let’s not forget, “our attitude toward life is part of the life education we give to the next generation.” In addition to hoping the government can establish a comprehensive animal performance mechanism to protect animals, when taking children to animal attractions, adults should also lead by example, helping children develop a more correct attitude toward animals.

Currently, in addition to Tianma Ranch, there are about a dozen animal leisure attractions across Taiwan, includingTaipei City Zoo, Kaohsiung Shoushan Zoo, Hsinchu City Zoo, Sun Moon Lake Peacock Garden, Changhua Klein Manor, Lugu National Phoenix Valley Bird Park, Tainan Wild World Safari Park, Taichung Uncle Guo’s Wild Monkey Park, Changhua Dashan Leisure Ranch, and Madou Crocodile Kingdom…among others, all of which are great places for family trips. We hope everyone can be a good role model for children and care for animals together for a joyful trip.