There are fears Fife Animal Park’s exotic creatures could face a death sentence after the attraction closed its doors on Monday.
The troubled attraction, which has suffered financial problems in the past, announced it was no longer open to the public, leaving over 70 species in its care with an uncertain future.
One animal welfare charity warned the outlook was bleak for the beasts and said it would be difficult to find new homes for some species such as zebras and waterbuffalo.
Among the park’s other residents are meercats, lemurs, racoons and the iconic Scottish wildcat.
Libby Anderson, policy director for the charity OneKind, said: “OneKind hasserious concerns about the situation of the animals at the Fife Animal Park. Previous experience shows that it is difficult to find suitable homes for exotic animals and it is essential that this is done with the participation of an animal welfare organisation such as the Scottish SPCA.
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“Rehoming them is completely differentto rehoming a domestic animal as their needs are extremely specialised.”
But Fife Animal Trust reassured followers of its Facebook page: “Don’t worry about the animals, they are going to be rehomed, going to other zoos and parks.”
And The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), which owns Edinburgh Zoo and Highland Wildlife Park, could be prepared to offer the creatures a lifeline.
A spokeswoman said: “RZSS issaddened to hear the news that Fife Animal Park will close. While we have not been contacted by Fife Animal Park to date, we are more than happy for them to get in touch.”
Fife Animal Trust, which took over the park in 2011, did not reveal the reason behind the sudden closure.
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The park has encountered financial difficulties in the past. Its previous owners Fife Animal Park Limited went into liquidation owing the taxman nearly £54,000.
In 2012, the trust said the new team was committed to keeping the attraction open, and was finalising a five-year action plan.
However, the future of the park was reliant on visitor entry fees.
In October last year, it was revealed the park and its livestock had been put on the market for £500,000.
In a statement on its Facebook page, Fife Animal Trust said: “As of today 17/02/14 the animal park will no longer be open to the public.
“The reason behind this decision will be announced by the trustees in the near future. Thanks for all your help and support.”
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The trust added that the cafe, children’s play area and pet shop would remain open.
Fife Council said it was working with the trust to ensure the animals receiveappropriate care after the park’s closure.
The Scottish SPCA is supporting the council to safeguard the animals’ welfare.
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Senior Inspector Steven Gray from the Scottish SPCA said: “We are aware of the potential closure of Fife Animal Park.
“We will provide support to the council as required with regards the onward care of any animals which may require rehoming as a result of the closure of the facility.”