Fota Wildlife Park announces reopening date following bird flu closure

Fota Wildlife Park has announced it will reopen to the public later this month following a 10-week closure period.

The not-for-profit conservation organisation confirmed this morning that it will reopen to the public on December 20 following its closure to manage an avian influenza (H5N1 bird flu) outbreak originating from wild bird populations.

As a result of the outbreak, 73 birds were euthanised at the park at the start of November.

A spokesperson for the park said teams have been working closely with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) to implement comprehensive biosecurity protocols and disease control measures.

As a result of these measures, all birds in Fota Wildlife Park’s population have been tested twice for Avian Influenza and all test results were confirmed as negative.

The spokesperson has said that the park will continue to maintain enhanced biosecurity measures and monitoring protocols.

Aileen Tennant, director of Fota Wildlife Park said that the facility “exists to protect rare and endangered species through conservation breeding programmes, research and education”.

“I'm delighted to confirm that we will reopen on December 20, visitors will once again be able to experience the wonder of seeing some amazing animals in our care such as our Asian lions, cheetahs, Indian rhino and ring-tailed lemurs during the festive season,” said Ms Tennant.

“I would like to thank the expert team at DAFM for their support during the avian influenza outbreak, and to pay tribute to our incredible team whose top priority throughout the closure period has been the ongoing care and welfare of our animal population.

“Their dedication and commitment to animal care and conservation work has been continuing diligently while we have been closed.” 

 Ms Tennant further asked members of public to support Fota Wildlife Park this Christmas by donating or sponsoring an animal.

“With the countdown to Christmas well underway, we are asking the public to continue their long-standing support for Fota Wildlife Park."

“Please consider donating, purchasing gift vouchers, sponsoring an animal, or pre-booking your online tickets today.

“This support will ensure we have the resources to help us maintain world-class care standards and to continue our critical conservation work for years to come.

“The support from our annual pass holders, stakeholders and the public has been overwhelming, and we're deeply grateful for that support.” 

 For more information on opening hours, to pre-book a ticket, sponsor an animal or to make a donation, visit: www.fotawildlife.ie.