Lions OK, penguins no: Austrian zoo has selective selfie stick ban to ensure animals' welfare

VIENNA – Austria's top zoo has bad news for visitors who want to get up-close photos of some animals: No more selfie sticks.

The Schoenbrunn Zoo says smartphones on selfie sticks are too close for comfort for its humboldt penguins and South American sea lions, when poked into their enclosures.

The Vienna zoo announced Tuesday that it will mount signs prohibiting the devices because the penguins and seals could feel disturbed or even take a nip at the phones.

Selfie sticks will still be allowed for other animals whose enclosures provide for more distance to visitors.