Outrage mounts as conditions worsen at embattled UK zoo
Outrage and shock have spread. Following reports from Bild about the cruel conditions at South Lakes Safari Zoo in England, readers are demanding the facility's immediate closure. Despite this outcry, the zoo remains open, and new details about the animals' suffering are emerging.
The BBC has uncovered the appalling conditions at the zoo: bears and rhinos live in enclosures that are too small and filthy, and injured animals stand terrified in their pens.
Over a period of three years, nearly 500 animals have reportedly died due to catastrophic conditions.
Internet users around the world are expressing their outrage. Klaus Jasmund writes, "I am shocked. Unbelievable, the zoo should be closed immediately, and those responsible punished. Poor animals, it's a disgrace!" Dagmar Stephan adds, "I'm ashamed to be human. These animals must be freed from this chamber of horrors and torture rooms. The zoo should be closed, and the director and caretakers held accountable." Another reader asks, "I feel pure terror. These images are unbelievable. Are the animals safe and have they been freed?"
Despite numerous appeals, the closure of this 'horror park' is not planned. Martin Lindsay, the BBC journalist who brought the matter to public attention, explains in an interview with "Bild" why no action has been taken so far.
It is the responsibility of the city council to oversee the zoo. The council would have the authority to close it. After inspections, they had serious concerns but found no evidence of serious systemic health and condition problems as in the past. In July, the zoo was once again a topic at a council meeting. They decided that the zoo could remain open under certain conditions - explains Lindsay.
Shocking information about the English zoo
However, for animal rights activists and former employees, this is not enough. Lindsay reveals more irregularities:
We know that rhinos are confined in cramped, dirty pens and often go without food for up to 17 hours. A shocking image shows a zebra with its front leg stuck in a door. It couldn't free itself and was euthanized - explains Lindsay.
The last inspection report also noted insufficient water supply and uncleaned stalls. It's all the more puzzling that the zoo remains open. The operators continue to deny any mistreatment of animals.
