wildlife
Brexit endangers species protection – zoos have problems with transport
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Britain’s exit from the EU not only has economic implications for the island nation, but also for endangered species kept in British zoos.
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Transporting giraffes by air is somewhat problematic.
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According to a recent report, Brexit is having a negative impact on the protection of endangered species. Zoos, which usually exchange their animals for breeding programs, now have problems carrying out these transports in view of the high hurdles for controls and examinations, as the “Observer” reported on Sunday.
“Animal movements between zoos and aquariums are carefully planned to maintain a genetically healthy population,” said Nicky Needham of the British-Irish Zoos and Aquariums Association. According to the association, 84 animals have been transported between Great Britain and the EU so far this year, and only 56 in all of last year. Before Brexit, the average was around 1,400 animals a year.
Among others, the eastern black rhino is endangered, of which only a few animals exist in zoos – many of them live in British zoos according to the association. Failure of the conservation program would further endanger the species, Needham said.
Elaborate border controls make animal transport more difficult
Extensive controls and investigations must be carried out at the borders in accordance with current EU regulations. According to the “Observer”, there are no appropriately equipped checkpoints at every border crossing, but so far only at some airports.
This currently makes it de facto impossible to exchange larger animals that can only be transported by land or water. According to those affected, the fact that animal transport can only take place by plane has also made the whole thing more expensive.
A spokesman for the British Ministry of Agriculture blamed Brussels: “This shows the damage that the EU’s bureaucratic approach is causing to animal and plant health.” We are ready to negotiate a pragmatic approach. (dpa)
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