"Tireless" zoo staff prepare to re-open after storm damage to tortoise and butterfly areas

Monday 06 November 2023

Jersey Zoo says it's hoping to re-open to visitors later this week, with staff work "tirelessly" to clear pathways and fix storm damage to butterfly and tortoise enclosures.

The zoo announced last weekend that as a result of Storm Ciarán, the site would remain closed "until further notice."

It also said that an elderly flamingo had passed away during the 100mph gusts, which brought down several trees across the zoo and car park.

Express has since learned that the hurricane-force winds damaged pathways, buildings, and the butterfly and tortoise tunnels.

???? As a result of Storm Ciarán, we have decided to remain closed until further notice. We will update you on when the zoo is able to reopen.

We apologise for any inconvenience and thank you for your support and understanding. ???? pic.twitter.com/N0pM2qyQjk

— Jersey Zoo (@JerseyZoo) November 4, 2023

The Organic Farm had also "suffered extensive damage", according to a spokesperson.

In an update on Monday afternoon, a spokesperson confirmed: "We hope to reopen the Charity Shop, Cafe Firefly and Zoo Shop on Tuesday, as soon as the car park has been cleared and is safe for visitors to use.

"We will continue to work on clearing pathways within the zoo to reopen to visitors later this week."

The statement continued: "Jersey Zoo's grounds team and animal staff are working tirelessly to clear up the site and fix any damage to enclosures. Our priority is to ensure the site is safe before we welcome back our visitors."

Pictured top: The Zoo has been closed since last week, when Storm Ciarán battered the island with 100mph winds.