Marwell Zoo achieves mark of excellence as Government announces a major overhaul of animal welfare rules

We have achieved a national mark of excellence in zoos and aquariums – announced as the Government today unveils a major overhaul of animal welfare rules.

We have attained BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums) Accredited status, demonstrating that we meets the world-class standards set by the body for the best zoos and aquariums in the UK and Ireland.

Marwell was screened by BIAZA’s experts earlier this year and we are among the first to be accredited in the new scheme, which goes above and beyond the UK and Ireland’s zoo licensing inspection regime.

The announcement comes on the day the Government unveils a major overhaul of animal welfare rules in British zoos. We are proud that Marwell already meets these standards, which BIAZA has welcomed as a sign that Britain now leads the world in zoo regulation.

Dr Jo Judge, the CEO of BIAZA, congratulated Marwell on its achievement. She said: “Receiving accredited status is not an easy thing to do. It is testament to the passion and hard work of every member of staff.

“Our accreditation program means visitors can be sure that BIAZA zoos and aquariums are dedicated to looking after their animals to the highest standard and to inspirational work in conservation and education. We need good zoos more than ever. We face a nature crisis and we have the power to make a big difference.”

Laura Read, Chief Executive at Marwell Wildlife, said: “Today’s accreditation for Marwell and the Government’s update on animal welfare rules are a reminder of the importance of excellence in standards in British zoos, and of vital conservation work around the globe.

“We are proud that our own commitment to striving for the gold standard in everything we do has been recognised by BIAZA’s experts.

“From initiatives at Marwell, like our new Native Species Zone to highlight the work we’re doing with white-clawed crayfish and sand lizards, to international projects such as our Save Our Stripes campaign for the Grevy’s zebra in Kenya, and our 30-year work to save the scimitar-horned oryx from extinction, we put wildlife first.

“We look forward to continuing to lead the way, supporting the reputation of British zoos as world-leading hubs for conservation, education, and animal care.”

The Government’s new standards include updated best practice for enclosure sizes, the handling of exotic animals, sea creatures and birds of prey, and public safety measures. 

Animal Welfare Minister, Baroness Hayman said:  “We are a nation of animal lovers, and our best zoos and aquariums are truly world leaders in setting the standard for how wild animals should be kept.

“Today’s long-overdue reforms lay the foundation for an even stronger, even more compassionate future for all zoos and aquariums —and the animals they protect.”

For more information about BIAZA, visit www.biaza.org.uk