A rare albino buffalo in Bangladesh was spared from being slaughtered for Eid al-Adha after it went viral for resembling Donald Trump.
The animal's relocation to a national zoo reflects the power of social media to influence the fate of livestock during traditional religious festivals. By intervening, authorities prevented the sacrifice of a creature that had become a global curiosity.
The buffalo, which weighs 700 kg [1], was moved to the national zoo in Dhaka. The animal's appearance, specifically its golden locks, drew widespread attention online for several weeks before the relocation took place earlier this month [2].
Upon arriving at the zoo, the buffalo received what media reports described as luxury treatment. The facility provided the animal with fans, mats, and mosquito nets to ensure its comfort [3]. These amenities have coincided with a surge in visitors, as the buffalo continues to draw large crowds of people eager to see the resemblance to the U.S. politician [3].
Bangladeshi authorities intervened to ensure the animal would not be used in the Eid al-Adha sacrifice [4]. The decision followed the animal's rise in popularity on digital platforms, where its physical characteristics were compared to those of the former U.S. president [4].
While most reports highlight the animal's current popularity, some accounts have differed regarding its wellbeing. Some sources said the buffalo lost its appetite after being mocked online, though other reports said the animal is thriving under its new care regimen at the zoo [3, 5].
“A rare albino buffalo in Bangladesh was spared from being slaughtered for Eid al-Adha.”
This incident highlights the intersection of traditional religious practices and modern digital culture. The 'viral' status of the animal effectively granted it a form of celebrity protection, overriding its intended purpose as a sacrificial animal. It demonstrates how global internet trends can dictate local administrative decisions and animal welfare outcomes in real-time.
