Tiger Sighting Near University of Cincinnati Campus Sparks Questions Among Residents

Following a series of alleged tiger sightings in Cincinnati, concerns have been raised about the presence of these big cats in urban areas. The incidents, reported near the University of Cincinnati campus, have prompted residents to question the reality of these encounters.

Eye Witness Accounts

Toni Jackson, an employee at the university, reported to local media that she and her supervisor notified the police after spotting a tiger in the vicinity of the campus during the early hours of Monday morning. Additionally, a group of UC students informed the authorities that they had also seen a tiger near their apartment close to Burnett Woods.

Past Incidents

While the recent reports have caused a stir, past occurrences of big cats appearing in urban areas have been documented. In 2023, a tiger was discovered in Dallas as part of an investigation into illegal animal activities. Similarly, in the same year, a Bengal tiger cub was found in New Mexico during a police response to a separate incident. In a separate case in 2022, a search for a tiger in Albuquerque led to the discovery of an alligator, along with the seizure of illicit substances and firearms.

One of the most notorious examples dates back to 2003, when a 425-pound tiger named Ming was found in a Harlem apartment, along with an alligator. This incident resulted in legal consequences for the individual responsible.

Wildlife Trafficking and Captive Tigers

It is important to note that the ownership of tigers is illegal in Ohio, but regulations regarding the possession of big cats vary across different states. Furthermore, wildlife trafficking, primarily conducted through online platforms, poses a significant threat to endangered species. According to the World Wildlife Fund, the ease of finding protected animals online is alarming, with the illicit trade being the second most substantial threat to endangered species, following habitat loss.

Another concerning revelation, as stated by experts from the World Wildlife Fund, is that there are more captive tigers in the United States than in the wild. Shockingly, only a small percentage of these tigers are housed in accredited zoos, with the majority being kept as pets, in breeding facilities, or as attractions at small theme parks.