London Zoo has a rich history, with both triumphs and challenges. From wartime struggles to recent incidents, the zoo has faced its fair share of ups and downs. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore the various London Zoo incidents that have occurred over the years, providing insights and lessons learned.
Historical Incidents
During World War II, London Zoo faced numerous challenges, including bombings and shortages of fuel and food. On September 3, 1939, the zoo was closed by order of the government, reopening on September 15 with the aquarium remaining closed due to the danger of bombing and high costs of running it. Many fish had to be destroyed, but some were released into the Three Island Pond. The zoo was bombed several times, causing damage to various buildings and leading to the death of some animals. For safety reasons, all venomous animals were killed during the war.
In 2017, a fire broke out at Animal Adventure, an area primarily for children, resulting in the death of a nine-year-old aardvark named Misha and the presumed death of four meerkats. The cafe/shop was severely damaged, and the zoo reopened on Christmas Eve.
Detailed Specifications
Ticket Prices and Memberships
- Adult tickets cost £29.50
- Child tickets (3-15 years) cost £20.00
- Concession tickets cost £24.50
- A family of four (two adults and two children) can purchase tickets for £85.00
- London Zoo offers various membership options, including individual, joint, family, and corporate memberships. Members receive unlimited free entry to the zoo, discounts on food and shopping, and exclusive access to member events.
Timings and Directory
- The zoo is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, with last entry at 4:00 pm.
- A detailed directory of all the animals and their habitats, as well as the zoo’s hours of operation, can be found on the London Zoo’s official website.
Critical Incidents and Response
In 2016, Kumbuka, a silverback gorilla, made headlines for escaping his enclosure for a short time. The incident was the result of a zookeeper’s mistake in not properly securing the door to Kumbuka’s den. However, the zookeeper’s bond with Kumbuka allowed for a quick resolution, with the gorilla being tranquilized and returned to his den within two hours.
Real-life Incidents and Statistics
In 2018, there were two high-profile keeper deaths in the UK, including Sarah McClay, who was killed by a Sumatran tiger at South Lakes Wild Animal Park. These incidents serve as a sobering reminder of the risks involved in working with wild animals and the importance of strict safety protocols.
Conclusion
London Zoo has faced its fair share of challenges over the years, from wartime struggles to recent incidents. However, the zoo has demonstrated resilience and a commitment to animal welfare, continuously working to improve the safety and well-being of both its visitors and its animal residents. By learning from past incidents and implementing robust safety measures, London Zoo continues to be a beloved destination for animal enthusiasts and families alike.