A video filmed on the streets of Tampico, Tamaulipas, went viral on social media after showing a young man walking on all fours while wearing a crocodile mask, supposedly identified as a “therian.”
In the footage, which began circulating on digital platforms this week, the young man is seen moving along the street, mimicking the movements of a reptile, while pedestrians walk around him.
During the recording, another passerby approaches and kicks him in the torso, at which point the clip cuts off, leaving what happened next unknown.
The video was shared by an account dedicated to entertainment videos in the area, which has raised questions about the true nature of the scene.
“First therian in Tampico,” reads the video’s description, which includes a hashtag describing it as humor, suggesting that the situation was staged to generate views.
The video has garnered millions of views and is part of the growing visibility of the ‘therian’ phenomenon in Mexico, which has gained online presence in recent months.
“Why the beating? He didn’t do anything, really. It’s infuriating that they support that.”
“HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA HOW THEY KICKED HIM!”
“What was the need to kick him? He wasn’t even doing anything.”
“Why kick people?! They’re not bothering anyone!”
“He did it for all of us who have wanted to do it.”
“Does that count as animal abuse?”
“I felt sorry for him, but I don’t like therians,” are some of the comments.
The term ‘therian’ is used to describe people who claim to feel a deep connection—emotional, spiritual, or identity-based—with a non-human animal.
In some cases, this is expressed through the use of masks, accessories, or behaviors that mimic the species with which they say they identify.
Experts point out that it is not a clinical condition or a recognized disorder, but rather a form of identity within digital subcultures that emerged primarily in online forums in the late 20th century.
On social media, content about therians typically includes symbolic representations, personal narratives, and demonstrations of animal-inspired physical movements.
These groups have gathered in public spaces such as parks and plazas in cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey, generally for social events, recreational activities, or photo shoots.
Source: milenio
