Breeding programmes designed to save critically endangered species are jeopardised by Brexit, with zoos warning that red tape created by the UK’s departure from the EU is preventing them from transferring animals such as rhinos and giraffes.
Because zoos have small populations, it is critical that they exchange animals for breeding programmes in order to keep the gene pool as diverse as possible.
Before 31 December 2020, an average year saw about 1,400 transfers between the UK and other European countries.
According to Nicky Needham, Biaza’s senior manager for animal care and conservation, there are over 400 European Endangered Species Programmes (EEPs), with UK zoos and aquariums coordinating about 25% of them.
The senior manager added, “These are safety net populations for threatened species,” she said.
“Animal transfers between zoos and aquariums are carefully planned to maintain a healthy genetic population.”
A large portion of such inspections must be conducted at border checkpoints, which are typically established by private businesses.
