Overview
- The zoo posted the advertisement on June 13 asking nationwide applicants to wear black bear costumes, roam the park and interact with visitors for an annual salary of 100,000 yuan.
- The listing sets age and fitness rules, six-hour shifts with four days off per month, a strict no-talking rule that allows only animal noises, and a requirement that performers be willing to accept food from guests.
- The ad went viral on Chinese social media, attracted more than 100 applicants within days, and the zoo says available roles were filled quickly though it did not disclose how many people were hired.
- Reporters and commenters flagged unresolved practical and safety questions, including whether the soft costumes have ventilation or cooling, the risks of Henan summer heat for masked performers, and how costumed actors might affect children’s views of real wildlife.
- The zoo opened in early May with local government backing and the spokesperson suggested social-media fame could boost earnings, a move that may raise reputational, safety and regulatory issues as the park seeks visitors.