Outrage erupts as alligator killing video goes viral

A woman from Chongqing found herself at the center of a social media storm after posting a video on the short video-sharing platform Douyin, in which she showcased the killing and preparation of an alligator.

The video, posted by the food vlogger known as "Chu Niang Xiao He," who boasts a following of over 3.5 million on the platform, quickly generated a wave of negative reactions and raised questions about animal cruelty.

In the video, the vlogger demonstrated the process of washing, gutting, skinning, and de-boning a crocodile weighing over 90 kilograms. The animal was subsequently cooked into various dishes, and the vlogger even complimented the beauty of its skin.

Many netizens expressed their dissatisfaction and disapproval of the video, deeming the killing and public butchering of the alligator as gratuitous acts aimed at gaining attention and followers.

In an attempt to defend her actions, the vlogger argued that the alligator in the video was artificially bred for the leather industry.

She compared it to a luxury alligator handbag and said, "These artificial-bred alligators are raised specially for the leather and handbag companies. This is their mission. Would you say no to a Hermes alligator bag? We should be more rational."

However, her justification has not appeased the negative response from netizens. Many have questioned whether society should condone the ruthless killing of an animal and if it was against the law. The video-sharing platform has also been criticized for allowing the video to be published.