Vienna, Nov 3 (IANS/EFE) Vienna Zoo has banned the use of selfie sticks in areas where seals and penguins live, to avoid the discomfort experienced by animals when visitors use these tools to take close-up pictures, a zoo spokeswoman said.

The zoo argued that some animals, such as seals, may even bite the phone, leading to potential health hazards and they may also pull the stick, which can cause injuries to the owner.

The measure does not involve prohibiting the use of the selfie stick in all areas.