Bobcat Attacks Woman At Birch Run Zoo

I am truly an animal lover. I love pretty much all animals... except bugs. So for me, going to the zoo is a real treat. And over the years I have grown to love Wilderness Trails Animal Zoo in Birch Run. Their staff goes above and beyond to care for their animals and educate the public.

They have special events throughout their season and it's a remarkably large zoo considering how small it looks from Gera Road. Unless you're looking for it, it's easy to miss on your way to and from Frankenmuth. So this story breaks my heart for everyone involved.

Bobcat Attack at Wilderness Trails Animal Zoo

According to Breaking News 989 and confirmed by Flint Police Operations, a woman was attacked by a bobcat around 11:45 this morning (5/1/2025). A witness called 911 and reported that a 30-year-old woman was bleeding from the head after the bobcat clawed her head. She is an employee at the zoo. No guests or visitors were injured.

In a statement released by the Saginaw County Sheriff Department, after the employee was clawed the bobcat was immediately contained by other zoo employees. She was turned over to the medical department to treat her injuries.

Challenges and Dangers of Working with Zoo Animals

Speaking with one of the employees on more than one occasion, I have learned a lot about zoo animals. In fact, one particular employee broke my fear of snakes when he put a snake around my neck for a radio broadcast.

I was initially terrified. But once the snake and I got comfortable I walked around with the boa constrictor around my neck for about 20 minutes. I even had my hand licked by a tiger, but through a fence. Even my friend won't go in that cage unless he absolutely has to.

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Zookeepers Love For Animals And True Dedication To Their Jobs

But there is always an inherent danger when working with large animals. Many zoos, including Wilderness Trails, are non-profit. These people have such a love for animals that they literally risk their lives doing what they do.

I truly wish the employee a speedy recovery and thank the staff that stepped in. Because of their heroism, this situation could have been a lot worse.