‘Dangerous, demeaning’: Video shows orangutans fighting in Cambodian zoo

Video filmed at a zoo in Cambodia shows orangutans in a boxing ring punching each other for entertainment.

3AW Mornings producer Michael Hilder filmed the video in Phnom Penh recently.

Neil Mitchell said it was demeaning to the animals but also dangerous to encourage them to fight.

RSPCA CEO Dr Liz Walker said it was important to have clear standards of animal welfare and care when animals are used as entertainment.

“When I saw that I thought it was very concerning,” she said.

“It’s a different culture over there. For us here, many Australians would find that really confronting.

“If you don’t like it, just say no.”

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Neil says it looks like they’ve been taught to fight and punch their handlers.

Dr Walker encouraged Australian tourists to “vote with their feet”.

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