Watch CBS News

Gov. Cuomo Signs Law Banning 'Tiger Selfies'

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- New York's Internet Romeos will have to find new ways to attract mates now that it's illegal to pose for photos with a tiger, lion or other big cat.

A law signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo this week prohibits contact between members of the public and big cats at traveling animal shows and fairs.

So-called tiger selfies have emerged as a popular profile photo on online dating sites.

Wildlife advocates say the interactions are dangerous for humans and the animals. They say the cats are often taken from their parents as cubs, mistreated and then neglected when they grow up.

Queens Sen. Tony Avella says he hadn't heard of tiger selfies when he sponsored the bill. He says people have been harmed while posing with big cats.

Some have even taken the trend and created blogs, like "Tinder Guys With Tigers," which shows pictures of people posing with tigers on their dating profiles.

You Might Also Be Interested In:

(TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.