Overhaul of zoo animal welfare rules welcomed by RSPCA

The RSPCA has welcomed a major update of zoo animal welfare rules from the UK Government, though the charity is concerned this overhaul doesn't go far enough to protect every animal.

The animal charity has been campaigning for many years for the improvement of zoo welfare standards to make the lives of animals kept in zoos better. 

The RSPCA says the Government plans are a significant positive step in the right direction, but there is still some way to go in some places, such as the welfare of elephants. The charity believes that animals should only be kept in captivity if good welfare can be assured - and for some species - such as elephants - this may never be possible. 

Dr Ros Clubb, Head of the RSPCA Wildlife Department said:  “We welcome this overhaul of zoo standards - but based on the information we have at the moment we think it could go further in places.

“For example, it is virtually impossible to fulfil the welfare needs of elephants in a zoo environment - it’s not just about space, but enrichment, social issues and their environment need also be considered. Based on the evidence,  elephants should be phased-out from zoos completely.

“We are pleased that the tethering of birds of prey is to end for long-term care. Depriving birds of the freedom to fly and to exercise almost any choice and control over their movements while tethered, goes against the basic principles of good animal welfare, including the need to exhibit normal behaviour patterns. 

“We welcomed the government’s proposal to phase out ‘touch pools’ (aquaria where the public are allowed to touch sea creatures), so we’re disappointed that this proposal appears to have been watered down. We remain concerned for the welfare of animals which are repeatedly handled, like crabs and star fish. Stress, physical harm, bio-security issues and lack of enrichment have been shown to have negative impacts.”

While more space for elephants is welcome, they experience very significant welfare issues and giving them a little more space will not be enough. The RSPCA and other members of the Elephant Welfare Group still await the Government response on the future of zoo elephants following a 10 year long review.

The RSPCA also believes that animal welfare education should form a mandatory part of zoos’ educational programmes.

Ros added: “A fundamental understanding of the welfare needs of all animals is so important. Zoo visitors should be educated about animal welfare so they are encouraged and informed about how to be kind and compassionate to animals they interact with.”

The charity also welcomed steps to ensure long-term financial planning for zoos, as it has seen the dire consequences of failing zoos, resulting in severe animal suffering.