A zoology expert has said that no barrier can be made completely impossible to get past, as UK zoos maintain high safety standards following the death of a man killed by a tiger at Yorkshire Wildlife Park. The unnamed victim, believed to have been alone, died on October 10 after entering the enclosure.
Expert comments on zoo safety measures
Dr Campbell Murn, programme director for Zoology at the University of Reading and former member of Defra’s Zoos Expert Committee, said: “Keeping visitors out of enclosures is one of the things zoos think about a lot when designing their exhibits most.”
UK zoo standards place public and animal safety and welfare at their core, influencing almost every decision about how a zoo is designed and run. Animals such as big cats are in the highest risk category.
The expert explained that high-risk animals must be kept behind secure primary barriers at all times, with additional stand-off barriers to keep visitors at a safe distance. Zoos must also have emergency procedures for incidents involving dangerous animals, and staff are trained and regularly drilled in how to respond in such scenarios.
Balancing safety and visitor experience
Dr Murn added: “No barrier can be made completely impossible to get past, but incidents like this are extremely rare in UK zoos. That is part of why they are so shocking when they happen. Zoos are trying to strike a balance. They want visitors to feel close to wild animals and learn about them, while making sure they stay safe and without fencing them off so heavily that the experience is lost.”
“For most people, a zoo is the only chance they will ever have to see a tiger or other endangered species in person. That encounter can be powerful. If it inspires people to care about these animals, it can turn into support for protecting them in the wild.”
Council launches investigation
City of Doncaster Council said it is “deeply saddened by the incident” and has launched a health and safety investigation.
Dan Swaine, executive director of place at City of Doncaster Council, added: “As the relevant licensing authority for the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, I can confirm that, in line with our statutory duties, the council has launched a health and safety investigation. We are also working with multiple agencies, including the police and health agencies, and are supporting the Yorkshire Wildlife Park in response to the incident.”
“At this time, we won’t be commenting further on the individual or the investigation and we ask that the privacy of those involved is respected at this difficult time.”
