Appeal for action on captive animals
Wildlife experts are calling for action to improve the welfare standards of captive animals, after reports find European zoos and circuses are failing to meet their needs.
At an international conference organised by the Born Free Foundation and FOUR PAWS, animal welfare organisations have reported that hundreds of thousands of wild animals are being kept in unsuitable conditions.
The meeting, which is taking place in Brussels on June 19-20, comprises animal welfare experts, zoos, academics and government officials.
Over the course of the two days, those in attendance will share knowledge and identify practical solutions to improve the lives of captive animals across the European Union.
David Turner, spokesperson for Born Free, said: "Investigations, such as those undertaken as part of the EU Zoo Inquiry, reveal that Competent Authorities are under-resourced, lack necessary knowledge and do not have the expertise necessary to bring about the changes anticipated by the EU Zoos Directive.
"Many Members State representatives acknowledge that improvements will be impossible without external help and support and that is, in part, the purpose of the Conference."
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
