australian Authorities Investigate Influencer Over Crocodile Encounter, PETA Calls for Deportation
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - Australian authorities have launched an investigation into American influencer Mike Holston, known online as “the true tarzan,” following the release of videos depicting him wrestling with crocodiles and other wildlife in Queensland. Animal rights organization PETA is demanding Holston’s deportation, citing animal abuse and exploitation.
The investigation centers on videos posted to Holston’s Instagram account, including a clip from September 5th with 1.7 million views showing him grappling with a saltwater crocodile and lifting it into the air. Authorities could fine Holston up to $24,711 (22,487 euros) if prosecuted, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Deportation remains a decision for the national government, which has yet to comment.
PETA released a statement asserting that “regulations are imposed to dissuade the influencers of the exploiting and perilous use of animals as accessories in social networks.”
Holston defended his actions in a post published a week ago,stating the videos were “for educational purposes” and warning viewers that these are “salty water crocodiles,in protected aboriginal lands,which even eat the locals.” He cautioned against recreating the images.
However, numerous users criticized Holston’s justification, accusing him of causing undue stress to the animals to gain followers. Other videos show Holston handling a spiny echidna as it defensively curls into a ball and shaking the bodies of kangaroos and wallabies killed by vehicles.
The incident follows a similar backlash in March against a U.S.influencer who filmed himself briefly separating a bison calf from its mother in Yellowstone National Park.