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Animals Are "Ready To Show Off" As Outdoor Attractions Welcome Back Islanders

Isle of Wight Zoo Facebook Page

As the lockdown starts to ease across the country a number of outdoor attractions on the Island are welcoming visitors, including the Isle of Wight Zoo.

As previously reported, the Prime Minister confirmed animal centres could start to reopen last week - with safety measures in place.

However, sites will not be allowed to open indoor exhibitions like reptile houses. Staff and visitors also must comply with social distancing guidelines at all times.

Charlotte Corney, founder of the Wildheart Trust, which runs the Isle of Wight Zoo says the shop, cafe, education centre and play areas will remain closed to the public but takeaway food is available.

After months of being deprived of human attention, Charlotte says the animals are looking forward to having some human interaction, she said:

"There is definitely going to be some showing off from the animals when visitors arrive. Natasha, for example, one of our rescue tigers - she just loves people and interacting with them. The spider monkeys as well really find it stimulating to have people around them."

She added:

"We just want to say the Island community has been absolutely the best, the way we have been kept going with the Foodbank and the community  and help of all sorts has been amazing - so a big thank you to anyone who has helped us."

Elsewhere, the Donkey Sanctuary said on Facebook it plans to reopen mid-July.

Meanwhile, Amazon Zoo World and Monkey Haven are also yet to set a date for when they will reopen:

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