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Tiger attack survivor relives terrifying encounter
14 Oct
Summary
- Scientist narrowly escaped a charging Amur tiger in Russia.
- He used a lit flare to deter the 400lb animal.
- The incident occurred during research in Russia's Primorsky Krai region.
A scientist has recounted the terrifying moment he was attacked by a Siberian tiger during research in Russia's Primorsky Krai region in 2009. Dr. John Goodrich, chief scientist at Panthera, was part of a team humanely capturing wild tigers to fit them with radio collars for conservation efforts.
During a routine check, Dr. Goodrich approached a tiger caught in a snare. The approximately 400lb male tiger suddenly broke free and charged him at 30mph. Thinking quickly, he deployed a lit flare, jamming it into the animal's chin, which caused it to retreat.
Dr. Goodrich, who was following advice not to run, was thrown by the impact but managed to reach his camp for medical attention. He subsequently underwent multiple surgeries following the near-fatal encounter. This event underscores the inherent dangers faced by wildlife researchers.
