Zoo reforms: Animals to get more space in 'long overdue' welfare changes
Zoos will be required to give animals more enclosure space as "long overdue" welfare reforms, modernising British zoo practices for the first time in over a decade.
The Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs said the new standards published on Saturday would better protect species ranging from the snowy owl to octopuses.
The changes will see elephants given larger habitats and bring an end to practices like the long-term tethering of birds of prey. They will also stop practices such as letting visitors touch fish and cephalopods including rays and octopuses.
Animal welfare minister Baroness Hayman said the move was the 'first step' in the Government's plan to deliver the 'most ambitious welfare reforms in a generation'.
'Today's long-overdue reforms lay the foundation for an even stronger, even more compassionate future for all zoos and aquariums — and the animals they protect," she said.
"This is the first step as part of our commitment to deliver the most ambitious animal welfare reforms in a generation.
'We're making sure all sectors have the tools they need to thrive, which is vital in our mission to deliver economic growth and make lives better for people across the country under our Plan for Change."
Zoos and aquariums will face a two-year timeline to adapt to the changes, which will also require them to improve conservation standards and safety measures when keeping dangerous animals.
'Dr Jo Judge, CEO of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, which represents over 130 zoos and aquariums, said its members have been 'working closely' with officials to meet the updated standards.
'The new standards are a significant step up in legal requirements and cement Britain's position as a global leader for zoos and aquariums ', she said.
'We are delighted to see them published today, demonstrating government's and the sector's commitment to the highest levels of animal care, and helping empower zoos and aquariums to keep leading the fight for nature.'
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