The South Lakes Safari Zoo in Dalton-in-Furness, Cumbria, UK, is home to a remarkable species of rhinoceros – the White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum). As a zoo touring enthusiast, you’ll be intrigued to learn about the unique details and the ongoing efforts to ensure the well-being of these magnificent creatures.

The South Lakes Zoo Rhino: Species and Location

The South Lakes Safari Zoo is proud to house a population of White Rhinoceros, a species known for its impressive size and distinctive features. These herbivorous mammals can weigh up to 5,000 kilograms and stand up to 1.8 meters tall at the shoulder. The zoo’s location in Cumbria, UK, provides a unique environment for these rhinos to thrive.

Outdoor Access and Grazing Opportunities

One of the key concerns regarding the South Lakes Zoo rhinos has been the limited access to outdoor exercise and grazing areas. The zoo has been mandated by the Barrow Borough Council’s licensing regulatory committee to submit a plan for improving the rhinos’ outdoor opportunities. This is a crucial step in ensuring the animals’ physical and mental well-being.

Zoo Information and Statistics

The South Lakes Safari Zoo is a sizable facility that houses a diverse array of animal species, including these impressive rhinos. The zoo has faced some challenges in the past, including fines after a tiger incident in 2013 and concerns raised about animal welfare. However, the zoo has been under new management since 2017, and efforts are underway to address these issues.

Welfare Concerns and Improvements

The South Lakes Zoo has been criticized for failing to meet the welfare needs of its rhinos, including issues with rodent infestations and flooding in the Africa House enclosure. These concerns were raised by both the Born Free organization and Barrow Council inspections. In response, the zoo has completed drainage works and has been instructed to ensure effective pest control measures are in place.

Rhino Housing and Relocation Plans

To address the welfare concerns, the South Lakes Zoo has submitted a planning application to convert land 40-50 miles from its primary site to house two of its eight rhinos. This move is intended to provide the animals with more suitable living conditions and access to grazing and exercise areas. The zoo has been given a one-year reprieve to provide all of their rhinos with these improvements.

Public Advocacy and Concerns

The public has played a significant role in raising awareness about the conditions at the South Lakes Zoo. Complaints about the zoo’s conditions and animal welfare have been made through Born Free’s Raise the Red Flag campaign and directly to Barrow Council. Born Free has called on the Zoo Investment Company to find alternative homes for the zoo’s rhinos that will provide them with the best possible care.

Conclusion

The South Lakes Zoo rhinos have been the subject of ongoing scrutiny and concern, but the zoo’s management and local authorities are working to address these issues. By implementing improvements to the rhinos’ living conditions, providing better access to outdoor spaces, and addressing pest control and drainage problems, the zoo aims to ensure the well-being of these magnificent creatures. As a zoo touring enthusiast, you can follow the progress of these efforts and advocate for the continued enhancement of the South Lakes Zoo’s rhino care.

References:
– https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-cumbria-64679420
– https://www.southlakessafarizoo.com/animal/white-rhinocerus/
– https://www.freedomforanimals.org.uk/news/animals-continue-to-suffer-in-south-lakes-horror-zoo
– https://www.freedomforanimals.org.uk/news/south-lakes-zoo-submit-proposals-to-house-rhinos-off-site
– https://www.bornfree.org.uk/news/barrow-council-reveal-south-lakes-safari-zoo-inspection-outcome/