Goodbye to 2020

BIAZA member zoos and aquariums across Britain and Ireland have worked so hard this year to ensure they work within their Government guidance; providing safe and much-needed days out for millions of families.  

BIAZA were therefore pleased to receive notice from Defra on Christmas Eve, of a change to the legislation which now allows outdoor areas of “an aquarium, zoo or safari park or outdoor animal attractions at a farm, wildlife centre or any other place where animals are exhibited to the public as an attraction;” to open in Tier 4 in England. This is in line with other outdoor spaces such as parks, historic estates and botanic gardens. 

This has been an extraordinarily challenging year for our zoos and aquariums, and for some, this opportunity will offer a lifeline that will support them in continuing to carry out their critical work, fighting to protect and preserve wildlife. BIAZA supports each of our member zoos and aquariums in deciding whether or not opening is a safe and viable option for their particular individual sites.  

We are so grateful for the unshakable support of our valued visitors and would encourage you to continue to support your local BIAZA member zoo or aquarium, whether that is ‘virtually’ or in person; safely and locally.  

We wish you all the best possible start to 2021, with brighter times ahead for us all.