Edinburgh Zoo have confirmed the zoo and wildlife park will remain open for the time being, with the cancellation of the Penguin Parade being the only change they will see.
The COVID-19 outbreak has caused multiple venues and attractions across the city to close their doors, including the National Museum of Scotland and the Edinburgh International Film Festival. You can see a list of every event that has been cancelled so far here.
Schools and nurseries are also set to close by the end of this week.
In a statement today, the zoo announced that they are doing everything they can to remain open, however the safety of staff, visitors and animals is still their top priority:
“We are taking all necessary precautions in line with government and public health advice in response to the coronavirus situation and encouraging our visitors to do the same.
“Please help us by regularly washing your hands at the various facilities and being mindful of social distancing.
“With the exception of the zoo’s penguin parade which can attract crowds, our keeper talks will continue and visitors will be able to enjoy large outdoor spaces at both parks.
The opening hours of the zoo will change to 11am-4pm (last entry at 3pm) and the Highland’s Wildlife Park will remain open 10am-4pm, with queue management, takeaway services in the cafe, and extra cleaning measures to “maintain the highest possible standards of hygiene.”
All public events are now postponed at the venue, however the zoo thanked everyone for their recent support:
“As a wildlife conservation charity, we will also be continuing with our work to safeguard threatened species in Scotland and around the world.
“We are incredibly grateful for your continued support which will be even more important over the coming months.”
For all the latest updates surrounding the coronavirus in Edinburgh and the Lothians, you can follow our live blog here.
