UK wildlife park stays shut following man’s death in tiger enclosure

Ticket holders should expect an update within five days

The incident took place on Saturday afternoon, when the man reportedly climbed down from a walkway and entered the enclosure. 

He died at the scene, South Yorkshire Police confirmed, adding that officers were supporting his family.

The park announced its continued closure on Monday. A spokesperson said: “Due to the events over the weekend, the park will remain closed today. Thank you for your understanding.”

Cars were seen moving in and out of the grounds, but the attraction remained closed to visitors. 

Those who had already booked tickets were told in a message sent on Monday morning that the park would contact them within five days to arrange alternative dates.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park has also confirmed that Altai, the rare Amur tiger involved in the incident, will not be euthanised and will remain in its enclosure.

Zoo expert says visitor safety must be balanced with wildlife experiences

Dr Campbell Murn, a lecturer at the University of Reading and former member of the government's zoo expert committee, said the incident was tragic but acknowledged that determined individuals could sometimes get past even strong security measures.

"I view it in the same way a determined thief will get into somebody's house or somebody's car and despite the best security systems and enclosures sometimes these things happen," he said.

Murn explained that zoos must allow visitors to enjoy close encounters with wildlife while ensuring appropriate safety measures are in place.

"One of the fundamental approaches of a modern zoo is to give people a wildlife experience and keep them safe so they can learn and they can enjoy being near the animals, but keeping a safety distance that is relevant but not making it too heavy handed."

Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, he added that public protection was an "enormous consideration" when determining zoo standards in the UK.