Chinese zoo hires staff to dress as black bears

A zoo in central China has filled several unusual positions after a viral job advertisement sought performers to dress as black bears and roam its grounds. The Luohe Wildlife Zoo in Henan province posted the listing earlier this month, offering an annual salary of 100,000 yuan (approximately $11,000) for the role.

The job requires individuals to wear a soft black bear costume, interact with visitors, and perform quirky behaviors such as climbing trees, dancing, or catching fish. A key stipulation is that performers are not permitted to speak while in character, though they may make purring sounds. Speaking is only allowed in emergencies. The zoo encouraged unconventional antics, stating in the advertisement, "The more bizarre, the more popular you'll be."

Applicants needed to be at least 18 years old, physically fit, and comfortable accepting snacks offered by guests. There were no gender restrictions. The position involves six-hour shifts with four days off per month. The zoo described it as the "freest position" on its grounds, where workers could lie down or play as they wished.

The advertisement, posted on June 13, quickly garnered widespread attention on Chinese social...