The operators of South Lakes Zoo in Cumbria have announced that the zoo will close to the public at the end of 2024. This decision follows years of controversy surrounding the facility’s animal welfare practices and management issues.
For years, South Lakes Zoo has been scrutinized by multiple investigations, including those led by the wildlife charity Born Free. Their findings have repeatedly exposed severe animal welfare failings and a significant number of avoidable animal deaths.
Earlier this year, more than 6,000 supporters of Born Free signed a petition urging authorities to revoke the zoo’s licence. This followed yet another investigation highlighting “catastrophic failings” in the care of animals at South Lakes Zoo.
A Long History of Issues
The zoo’s problems began surfacing as far back as 2013, with multiple disturbing incidents. These included:
- The tragic death of a keeper killed by a tiger.
- Nearly 500 animal deaths recorded over just three years.
- The controversial breeding and euthanasia of lion cubs.
- The revocation of the zoo’s licence in 2017.
In addition to animal welfare failings, the zoo has also faced legal disputes between the site owners, Zoo Investment Company, and the tenants, Cumbria Zoo Company Limited.
Born Free first visited the facility in 2017, prior to its temporary licence revocation, and flagged concerns about animal welfare and visitor safety to the local licensing authority.
Ongoing Failings and Investigations
Further visits in October 2022 and 2024 confirmed that South Lakes Zoo continued to fall short of standards outlined in the Zoo Licensing Act 1981 and the Secretary of State’s Standards of Modern Zoo Practice.
In October 2024, a BBC investigation revealed shocking allegations of neglect, preventable animal deaths, and disturbing images provided by former zoo employees. These findings underscored persistent welfare issues at the zoo.
The Future of the Animals Remains Uncertain
Reacting to the closure announcement, Chris Lewis, Born Free’s Captivity Research & Policy Manager, said:
“While we are pleased to see today’s announcement, exact details on the future of the animals and the site itself remain unclear. Born Free urges all parties to work together to ensure the welfare of the animals remains paramount until a time when appropriate homes can be secured for them.”
As South Lakes Zoo prepares to close its doors to the public, concerns remain about the wellbeing of the animals currently housed at the facility. Wildlife advocates, including Born Free, continue to emphasize the importance of finding appropriate homes where the animals can receive the care they deserve.
