Wanted: Bears – Chinese Zoo Hiring Staff to Perform in Costumes
A wildlife zoo in Luohe, China, is hiring employees to dress up as bears and interact with visitors. The role requires no experience and offers a unique opportunity for those looking for a non-traditional job.
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Working at a zoo sounds like a dream for many: fresh air, animal interaction, and a break from air-conditioned offices. However, most zoo positions require specialized training or extensive service experience. But there is an exception: the Luohe Wildlife Zoo in Henan province is offering a position that requires no experience and absolutely no talking to visitors.
The job is straightforward: employees wear a black bear costume, roam the park, and interact with guests. According to a recruitment ad on the news site Jiupai News, candidates must be over 18 and in good physical shape. The role involves six-hour shifts with four days off per month, paying an annual salary of 100,000 yuan (about $15,000).
A zoo spokesperson noted that pay could increase based on the employee's social media engagement. "This is a unique opportunity for young people and helps our zoo generate additional income," he said.
There are challenges, of course: the costume is hot, and the "bears" are forbidden from speaking to visitors, except in emergencies—they must only growl. Furthermore, employees are required to accept any food offered by guests. The role is perfect for both extroverted performers and introverts who prefer not to speak for six hours straight.
"This is the freest role in our complex. If you're tired, just lie down and daydream. If you're full of energy, dance, jump, or even catch fish. The weirder you behave, the more popular you'll be," the ad emphasized.
While the post sparked jokes online, the zoo clarified to the Henan Daily that this is not a gimmick. Management believes interactive experiences are essential to attract visitors. Moreover, having a human in a bear suit eliminates the risks of direct contact with real predators. If the "bears" prove successful, the zoo plans to introduce roles for tigers and lions as well.
