A captive tiger named Firmin has had his eyes removed and his eyelids sewn shut after years of damage caused by flashing cameras from tourists taking wildlife selfies.
Firmin, who had been kept as a show animal in Spain, suffered severe damage to his eyes due to repeated exposure to bright camera flashes.
Over his lifetime, the repetitive flashing light caused irreversible deterioration of his vision.
After being transferred to La Tanière Zoo Refuge in France in 2019, where he arrived with severe sight issues, veterinarians attempted to treat his condition.
Despite multiple operations, including one in 2021 to address perforating ulcers and glaucoma, Firmin's condition worsened.
In January 2025, the medical team decided that the best course of action was to remove both of his eyes and sew his eyelids shut to prevent further pain.
Wildlife experts condemn animal exploitation for tourism
Firmin's suffering is a direct result of the conditions he endured in captivity, highlighting the extreme consequences of wildlife selfies.
Many captive wild animals endure immense stress and health issues as a result of their unnatural living environments and constant interaction with humans.
Katheryn Wise, Wildlife Campaign Manager at World Animal Protection, stated:
Tigers are wild animals and should never be used as photo props or for entertainment.
"The effects of Firmin’s life as a show animal in Spain are heartbreaking and have resulted in him losing his eyes.
"Around the world, thousands of animals are bred in captivity in horrific conditions and used for tourist entertainment.
"Avoid any venue or event that allows you to touch, ride, wash, or have a photoshoot with a wild animal."
How tourists can help end wildlife cruelty
Tourists can play a crucial role in ending this cycle of cruelty by choosing not to participate in wildlife selfies and speaking out against exploitative venues.
Make ethical travel choices
The extreme fate of Firmin serves as a powerful warning of the suffering hidden behind the camera lens and a reminder that wild animals should be admired from a respectful distance, in their natural habitats where they belong.
Programmes such as Wildlife Heritage Areas provide destinations and showcase locations where animal welfare and sustainability are at the core.
Book with travel companies that support animal welfare
Jet2Holidays, Easyjet, Expedia, and more have robust animal welfare policies in place, and do not advertise any unethical animal attractions.
Several travel companies, such as TUI and GetYourGuide, are still actively exploiting animals just like Firmin. We are continuing to campaign for them to also adopt welfare policies and prioritise welfare over profits.
Firmin has suffered throughout his lifetime due to being held in captivity. Tigers are wild animals and belong in the wild.
