Zoo Facing Welfare Issues Announces Closure

A zoo, which has been the subject of animal welfare concerns, has declared its intention to cease operations by the close of the current month. South Lakes Safari Zoo, located near Dalton in Cumbria, has a history marked by difficulties. In October, a BBC investigation brought forth allegations of animal fatalities that could have been prevented, welfare problems, and a bullying culture, all of which the zoo denied. During July, Westmorland and Furness Council imposed additional stipulations on the zoo’s operating licence. This action followed inspectors’ discovery of “major causes for concern,” such as a work experience student being left unsupervised with hazardous animals. Karen Brewer, the chief executive of Cumbria Zoo Company Limited (CZCL), the entity managing the zoo, stated that it would close on 31 December. She added that the company was engaged in efforts to secure new homes for the animals. **Warning:** This article features images of animal injuries that some readers might find upsetting. The company intends to concentrate its efforts on a 120-acre property located approximately 40 miles (65kms) distant in Tebay, which it plans to operate as a nature and wildlife park. “In transition, the animals will all continue to be looked after and given the best veterinary care,” Ms Brewer declared in a press release. “We are working with various agencies, including two zoo consultants, to find them all new homes that are appropriate for their longer-term needs.” She further noted, “The initial development enables the movement of two of our rhinos to the land at Tebay in a safe and efficient manner knowing they will be happy with the environment we have created.” CZCL assumed control of the zoo’s operations in 2017. This occurred after its former owner, David Gill, had his licence denied subsequent to the deaths of nearly 500 animals over a three-year timeframe. In 2013, a tiger fatally attacked keeper Sarah McClay after it passed through an open door into the passageway where she was employed. The entity, established from the former owner’s board of directors, pledged numerous enhancements. Nevertheless, six individuals who were employed at the location between 2017 and 2022 informed the BBC that significant issues continued. These individuals asserted that several animals “suffered greatly” and that certain fatalities “could have been avoided.” Addressing that inquiry, Ms Brewer stated that CZCL did not own the zoo when Ms McClay’s death occurred, making it inappropriate for the company to provide comments. She further mentioned that since 2017, 33 independent government inspectors had visited the zoo, “and each have approved our standards.” “Our priority at all times is the high quality of care for all of our animals,” she additionally remarked. Furthermore, CZCL has been engaged in a disagreement with the Zoo Investment Company (ZIC), the proprietor of the land where the attraction operates, which seeks control of the park. Independently, both companies possess animals that are kept and displayed at the location. For updates, connect with BBC Cumbria on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Submit your story concepts to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Details concerning our external linking policy are available.