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86 Tigers Rescued from Thai Tiger Temple Have Died

VOA News

   More than half the tigers rescued three years ago from Thailand's
   notorious Tiger Temple have died, authorities said Monday.

   Eighty-six of 147 tigers seized developed laryngeal paralysis and
   canine distemper, diseases they were vulnerable to because of
   inbreeding at the sprawling complex where tourists were allowed close
   contact with the large cats.

   The Wat Pha Luang Ta Bua or Tiger Temple, located west of Bangkok,
   allowed tourists to hand feed the tigers, hold the cubs and take close
   up photos until the government seized 147 cats after reports of
   wildlife trafficking and animal abuse

   The tigers were relocated to two state-run sanctuaries. But officials
   soon noticed the effects of inbreeding "resulting in disabilities and
   weakened health condition," said Patarapol, head of the Wildlife Health
   Management Division.

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