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The long-awaited animal welfare reforms have finally been introduced, mandating zoos to provide more enclosure space for their animals. The Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) announced that these new standards, the first of their kind in over ten years, will revolutionize British zoo practices. Elephants, in particular, will benefit from larger habitats, while practices like long-term tethering of birds of prey will be eliminated, along with the prohibiting of visitor interactions with fish and cephalopods.
Jamie Christon, the chief executive of Chester Zoo, expressed his support for the reforms and stated that the zoo is already taking steps to implement them. Zoos and aquariums will have a two-year deadline to comply with the changes, which also involve enhancing conservation standards and safety protocols when dealing with dangerous animals. The collaboration between Chester Zoo and Defra in developing these reforms was highlighted by Mr. Christon, who emphasized that the new standards have been long overdue.
Baroness Hayman, the Animal Welfare Minister, described these reforms as the “first step” in the government’s broader plan to implement significant welfare changes. She emphasized the UK’s commitment to animal welfare and praised the nation’s top zoos and aquariums for setting the standard in caring for wild animals. Dr. Jo Judge, CEO of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums, lauded the updated standards, indicating that they elevate Britain’s status as a global leader in zoo and aquarium practices. The concerted effort between government officials and zoo representatives underscores the commitment to ensuring the welfare of animals in captivity
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