Patamawadee Chanpithak

Patamawadee Chanpithak is a lion breeder in Thailand who has gained notoriety for her role in the booming captive lion trade, which has seen a significant increase in the number of lions in captivity since 2018. Despite her initial inexperience leading to the death of many cubs, she has sold more than 80 lions and is known for her interactions with the animals, including nurturing cubs in her nursery. Her business operates within a controversial market where exotic pet ownership is popular among the wealthy elite, raising concerns about animal welfare and the implications of owning such large, wild animals.