Zoo at center of welfare concerns to close
A zoo at the center of animal welfare concerns has announced it will close at the end of the month.
South Lakes Safari Zoo, near Dalton in Cumbria, has had a troubled past, a BBC investigation in October revealed Avoidable animal deaths, welfare issues and allegations of bullying cultureWhich it rejected.
In July, Westmorland and Furness Council added conditions to the zoo’s license after inspectors found “Major cause for concern”Including a work experience student being left alone with dangerous animals.
Karen Brewer, chief executive of the zoo’s operator Cumbria Zoo Company Limited (CZCL), said it would close on December 31 and the company was working to find homes for the animals.
Warning: This article contains images of animal injuries that some readers may find disturbing.
The company wants to focus on a 120-acre site about 40 miles (65 km) away in Tebay, which it will run as a nature and wildlife park.
“In the transition, all animals will continue to be cared for and given the best veterinary care possible,” Ms Brewer said in a statement.
“We are working with various agencies, including two zoo consultants, to find all of them new homes that are suitable for their long-term needs.
“The initial development will enable us to transport our two rhinos to Tebes land in a safe and efficient manner, knowing they will be happy in the environment we have created.”
CZCL took over the operation of the zoo in 2017 after its previous owner David Gill was refused a license. Death of about 500 animals Over a period of three years.
In 2013, keeper Sarah McClay was killed by a tiger that had entered the corridor through an open door where she was working.
Formed from the old owner’s board of directors, it promised a number of reforms.
However, six people who worked at the site between 2017 and 2022 told the BBC that major problems remain.
He alleged that many animals “suffered great suffering” and some deaths “could have been avoided”.
In response to that inquiry, Ms. Brewer said that CZCL was not under the ownership of the zoo at the time of Ms. McClay’s death and therefore it was not appropriate to comment.
He said 33 independent government inspectors have visited the zoo since 2017 “and each has approved our standards”.
“Our priority at all times is high-quality care for all of our animals,” he said.
CZCL has also been involved in a dispute with Zoo Investment Company (ZIC), which owns the land on which the attractions operate and which wants control of the park.
Separately, both companies have animals housed and displayed on site.
