Police look into video of man spanking hippo at LA Zoo
Hippos Mara and Rosie at the Los Angeles Zoo. Photo by Jamie Pham
LOS ANGELES (KTVU, AP) - Police are investigating after a video shows a man spanking a hippopotamus at the Los Angeles Zoo.
The video shows the man crossing a railing last week and sneaking up on two hippos, Rosie and Mara.
He smacks 3-year-old Rosie on the rear and then her mother, Rosie, lifts her head as the man runs off and raises his arms in gesture of victory.
In a statement to KTVU the L.A. Zoo said, "The guest and the Zoo's two hippos, Rosie and Mara, were unharmed. Last Friday, a no trespassing sign was installed at the hippo exhibit reminding guests not to cross exhibit barriers into the habitats with the animals, and the Zoo hopes this will prevent copycat behaviors."
It was the first time the zoo has posted a “No Trespassing” sign on the exhibit.
The zoo's statement went on to say, "It is a privilege to observe these rare and endangered species, but they are still wild animals and their space must be respected at all times. Our first priority is always to keep our guests, staff, and animals safe."
Police told the Los Angeles Times they're investigating the case as trespassing because the hippo didn't appear to be injured.
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Information from: Los Angeles Times, http://www.latimes.com/