Only 1 Belgian zoo complies with animal welfare laws

Only one of Belgium’s 15 zoos complies with laws designed to protect wild animals that are held in captivity, according to a study carried out by the animal rights group GAIA.

Members of GAIA visited the zoos during the past 12 months to see if they respect legislation designed to ensure animal welfare and visitor safety. The educational value of the zoos was also looked at by GAIA.

Only the wildlife park at Saint-Hubert in Luxembourg province was found to comply with laws designed to ensure the welfare of its animals.

All seven Flemish zoos were found to have shortcomings. Even the prestigious Planckendael Animal Park near Mechelen in Antwerp province was found to be lacking in certain areas.

Aviflora in Ingelmunster (West Flanders) and Malter Park near Ghent were found to be the worst when it comes to caring for the welfare of their animals.

Read full article: Expatica Belgium, 20 August 2008