A miracle baby tortoise has emerged as the sole survivor of a devastating fire that swept through a children's mini zoo in Buntingford, Hertfordshire. Fire crews had initially feared that all animals had perished in the blaze, which engulfed the Jungle Box children's soft play centre and mini zoo on Watermill Industrial Estate.
Fire Crews Discover Tiny Survivor
Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service responded to reports of a "significant fire" at around 3:19 a.m. on Wednesday, June 10. At the height of the incident, ten fire engines and an aerial ladder were deployed. No humans were injured, and it is understood the site was unoccupied when the fire broke out.
During the subsequent fire investigation, crews made a remarkable discovery. A spokesperson for the fire service said: "We have some heartwarming news to share following yesterday's devastating fire at the Jungle Box in Buntingford. While carrying out the fire investigation, we incredibly discovered a baby tortoise alive in the aftermath, despite earlier fears that all the animals had died. A small but powerful moment after a very difficult incident."
Sharing a photo of the tiny survivor, crews called the discovery a heartening development amid the tragedy.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Darren Cook of Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service commented: "In the early hours of this morning we received calls to a significant fire at The Jungle Box in Buntingford. Crews worked hard to contain the fire and prevent it spreading to neighbouring units. Sadly, we can confirm that a number of animals were inside the building at the time of the fire and did not survive."
Cook added his thanks to crews for their professionalism and to fire control colleagues for their calm handling of the emergency calls.
The baby tortoise is now being cared for, offering a glimmer of hope after the devastating loss.
