A number of meerkats have died after an underground tunnel collapsed at Tropical Birdland in Desford, Leicestershire. Only one of the animals survived after heavy rainfall weakened tunnels the meerkats had dug beneath their enclosure, trapping the group underground.
Park announces 'catastrophic' loss
The park announced the deaths on August 24 and described the incident as an “unexpected and catastrophic turn of events”. In a statement, Tropical Birdland said: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the news of the passing of our beloved Meerkats. Most of last week our matriarch 'Big Mama' had her mob digging out and preparing a fresh chamber underground, ready for the arrival of her next litter of pups.
“Big Mama was an experienced mother, having several litters over the years, and her mob were very well practiced in digging tunnels and chambers. After an unusually long heatwave, the ground was ideal for digging.
“In an unexpected and catastrophic turn of events, the sudden heavy rainfall after such a long hot dry spell compromised the structure of the tunnels causing them to collapse.”
One meerkat rescued, team 'heartbroken'
Tropical Birdland added that staff members located where the meerkats were underground and were able to rescue one of them. They were “heartbroken” to find the rest had passed away.
The statement continued: “The team are regularly spending time with the surviving member of the group to comfort and monitor closely.
“This has been an incredibly distressing and heartbreaking time for all the Team. We thank you all for your continued support during this difficult and upsetting time.”
Park offers unique meerkat experiences
The park offered “one-of-a-kind” chances for visitors to mingle with the meerkats by being allowed in their enclosure to feed them, observe them and learn about their social structure, feeding habits, behaviour and habitat. The park also features miniature donkeys, alpacas and various bird species like parrots and flamingos.
