Belfast Zoo: Trainee Locked In Lion Enclosure
An investigation is underway following a concerning incident at Belfast Zoo earlier this month, where a trainee was locked inside the lion enclosure.
Belfast City Council, responsible for the zoo, has confirmed that it is taking "the safety of all our staff, visitors and animals very seriously" and that a thorough investigation is being carried out. While details are limited, BBC News NI has reported that the individual involved was over 18 years old and was at the zoo "in a training capacity."
The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) has been informed of the incident and will be working closely with the zoo throughout the investigation process.
Belfast Zoo houses a pride of Barbary lions, including a male named Qays and two females, Fidda and Theibba. According to the zoo's website, this breed is "one of the largest lion sub-species" with males reaching up to one metre in height at the shoulder and three and a half metres in length. Their average weight can reach a substantial 230 kilograms.
In a statement, Belfast City Council acknowledged the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to safety. "We cannot comment further while this is ongoing," it added. The incident has also been reported to the Health and Safety Executive.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident is expected to provide further clarity on the events leading up to the trainee being locked in with the lions. The outcome will be crucial in determining how to prevent similar occurrences in the future and ensuring the continued safety of staff, visitors, and animals at Belfast Zoo.
