MAZAMITLA, Jalisco — What was meant to be a routine interaction at the Camino Real del Tigre park became a dramatic moment when a Bengal tiger, known as “Rayitas,” grabbed veterinarian Alejandra Mora from behind on September 1. Captured on video and rapidly making the rounds on social media, the incident brought a surge of concern and commentary—from appreciation for Alejandra’s bravery to criticism of the park’s safety measures.
The Incident
According to local reports, the moment occurred in the morning, during an encounter between Alejandra and three tigers at the park. As she turned her back to one enclosure, Rayitas suddenly locked onto her raincoat, grabbing her with its claws. Visitors and staff watched in alarm as she was momentarily held by the tiger, prompting immediate intervention.
“Espérense, me está agarrando en serio,” she is heard saying in the footage as panicked onlookers attempted to assist. The thin mesh barrier prevented serious harm. Park staff intervened quickly, safely extricating her from Rayitas’s grip.
Benoign Intent—But A World of Concern
In a follow-up video shared on the park’s official channels, Alejandra clarified that Rayitas wasn’t aggressive—just intrigued by her raincoat and treating her like a playmate, not prey. She emphasized that both she and the tiger are unharmed. She also urged visitors not to react aggressively toward the tiger, as that might provoke a dangerous response.
The park issued a reassuring statement confirming that both staff and animals are fine, emphasizing their commitment to enforcing safety protocols.
Safety Under Scrutiny
This isn’t the first time that Camino Real del Tigre has found itself under criticism. In late 2024, activists denounced alleged mistreatment of big cats, including sedation, tethering, and exploitation for visitor photo opportunities. The Federal Environmental Protection Agency (PROFEPA) even closed the facility in December after finding deficiencies in the park’s authorization and handling of protected animals.
This recent event has renewed public pressure, with comments on social media divided between outrage over lax safeguards and sympathy for the unpredictability of wildlife—even in captivity.
Expert Perspectives
Wildlife behaviorists stress that even seemingly gentle giants retain instinctive behaviors and enormous strength. Any provocative stimulus—bright colors, loose clothing, or sudden movements—can trigger play or defensive responses from these predators. Enclosures and personnel interactions must account for such unpredictability.
What’s Next?
Local environmental authorities are expected to review safety protocols and visitor interaction guidelines. The incident underscores the need for clear, enforced barriers and staff training to prevent similar scares—or worse—from occurring again.
Meanwhile, Alejandra’s composure and the quick actions of park staff likely prevented greater harm. But as this video reminds us: in places where humans and powerful wild animals cross paths, unpredictability always lingers.
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