A COMRIE wildlife park at the centre of a number of animal welfare and health allegations has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, blaming “misinformation” for the claims as a probe is launched.
Auchingarrich Wildlife Park has responded to the allegations, insisting animal welfare is its “top priority” and that the park is subject to “rigorous regulations and oversight”.
Police Scotland is making enquiries into a report of alleged animal welfare offences, while Perth and Kinross Council is also working with the park’s owners to ensure all necessary infection controls are in place.
Concerns raised include dead animals in the park and a visitor being admitted to hospital with E.coli after visiting the Comrie attraction.
Following recent negative reports and online posts, the park has this week issued a statement.
Park bosses said there had been “misinformation” and stressed the park’s “dedication to high standards of care”.
There have been reports of: a dead rabbit in a petting barn; dead birds stored in a freezer; a monkey carrying around its dead baby until it was skeletal; a kangaroo with its joey in its pouch lying dead in its enclosure and of a young visitor being admitted to hospital with E.coli, campylobacter and two viruses after visiting the park.
The park directly addressed some of the concerns raised and photographs of dead animals at the park which have been published widely.
Responding directly to questions on its Facebook page, the park spokesperson said: “The kangaroo was discovered early one morning by our then park manager.
“We were profoundly saddened by the loss. We immediately contacted our vet and sent the kangaroo to the Edinburgh Royal Dick School for a thorough post-mortem examination.
“The results indicated a small amount of water around her heart and a mild case of lumpy jaw, with no contusions or other signs of trauma.
“Therefore, it was concluded that she passed away of natural causes. We deeply regret not discovering her earlier, as it may have given us a chance to save her joey.
“The freezer shown in the photos is our designated carcass freezer, used to store deceased animals in compliance with legislation.
“We follow strict protocols for collection and disposal, utilising Grayshill services, and maintain comprehensive records for traceability.
“Lastly, a wild rabbit – unfortunately brought in by the park manager’s cats as an unwanted ‘gift’ – was removed before the petting barns opened to visitors.
“It’s truly saddening that the narrative surrounding these photos has been so distorted.”
The monkey’s actions – while “they challenge our human instincts and emotions” was described as “natural behaviour”.
The park spokesperson said: “It is essential for the safety and well-being of the monkeys, as well as the caretakers and other animals, to allow these processes to unfold naturally.”
The park’s full general statement said: “Recent allegations directed at Auchingarrich Wildlife Park have understandably raised concerns, and we wish to address them directly with our community:
“Commitment to Animal Welfare: We are proud of our continuous efforts to ensure the well-being of our animals.
“We have monthly vet inspections, with reports available for review at our reception to exemplify our dedication to high standards of care. Animal welfare is our top priority.
“Regulation and Inspection: Auchingarrich is subject to rigorous oversight by local authorities and animal welfare bodies.
“We recently passed a comprehensive zoo license inspection conducted by zoo inspectors, local authority vets, and animal welfare inspectors, resulting in the issuance of our new license.
“Health and Safety Standards: There was an isolated case of E.coli, the origin of which remains unknown.
“The family who reported this case confirmed they washed their hands after petting animals in the barn and that they brought their own lunch. This was not an outbreak, and we maintain the highest standards of biosecurity to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for all visitors.
“Transparent Approach: We are committed to transparency in all our operations and will happily cooperate with the police or any other official third parties wishing to investigate the park.
“Our openness to such scrutiny underscores our commitment to animal welfare. We invite the community to come and observe our operations firsthand. Transparency and proactive engagement remain at the heart of our values, and we are committed to maintaining the trust and support of our visitors.
“Thank you for your understanding and wonderful continued support as we navigate these false allegations with integrity and resolve.”
Perth and Kinross Council is working with the park’s owners.
Regarding the infection, a Perth and Kinross Council spokesperson said: “We are aware of a possible incident at the park and are working with the owners to ensure all necessary infection controls are in place.”
And regarding the other claims, the council spokesperson said: “Our animal welfare team is aware of the concerns raised and our officers have ongoing communication with the park owners regarding any matters raised.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We have received a report of alleged animal welfare offences in the Crieff area and enquiries are ongoing.”
