Chinese Hotel Ordered To Cease Red Panda Wake-Up Call Encounters

A hotel in Chongqing, China was ordered to cease its “red panda wake-up call” service, which allowed guests to have direct interactions with the endangered animals in their rooms. The Chongqing Forestry Bureau directed the Lehe Ledu Liangjiang Holiday Hotel to halt all activities that brought visitors into close contact with wild animals. The hotel had gained viral attention for its unique offering, which enabled guests, including children, to have hands-on experiences with red pandas on their beds. Hotel officials stated there were four red pandas at the facility that would take turns visiting guest rooms, with the duration depending on the animals’ temperament that day. However, a scientist from the World Animal Protection organization said such interactions could be considered animal abuse, as red pandas are sensitive creatures prone to stress responses that could endanger themselves or humans. (UPI)