"Glasgow"

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DATE:	ANIMAL:	LOCATION:
11th February 2002	SNAKES	Calderpark Zoo

 

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Glasgow
SNAKES
Vandals steal snakes from a ‘run-down’ city zoo
(John Staples)
THIEVES stole two snakes and left a trail of vandalism at a Glasgow zoo facing an investigation over the conditions in which animals are kept.
The offenders broke into Glasgow’s Calderpark Zoo in the early hours yesterday. Strathclyde Police said they then broke into the reptile house and making off with the non-poisonous creatures. A spokesman said that the animals taken were a 2ft long garter snake, described as long and grey-brown with yellow stripes, and a five-foot red-and-white corn snake.

News of the thefts came as details emerged of a damning report into the zoo by animal welfare groups. The report claims the "squalid, run-down conditions" are both physically and psychologically damaging to the animals.

Now, in light of the claims, Glasgow City Council is expected to investigate the state of the 50-year-old park, which may lead to it losing its licence or a suspension. A spokesman said: "We are awaiting the findings of the investigation carried out by animal welfare organisations. "Once we see the report, we will decide whether to take steps to suspend or withdraw the zoo’s licence."

The inspections of the 90-acre site, on the outskirts of the city, were carried out by welfare organisations Advocates For Animals (AFA) and Animal Concern. They both highlighted grave concerns over the well-being of creatures there including lions, tigers and a cheetah.

AFA’s Ross Minett said he was appalled by what he found.
He exclaimed: "Even by the poor standards of many zoos, Glasgow Zoo is an absolute disgrace. I have no doubt the animals are suffering both physically and psychologically. "Both animal and human life are at risk because of the filthy conditions, while most of the animals look depressed and bored." And John Robbins, director of Animal Concern, said: "Our charity is deeply concerned for the long-term well being of the animals."

Mon 11th February 2002
The Scotsman

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