Zoo animals to get more space in 'long-overdue' welfare changes

New standards published by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) include better protecting a range of species, including "the majestic snowy owl and golden eagle", "iconic elephants", and "wonders of the sea" such as sting rays and octopuses.

The government's plans, described by animal welfare minister Baroness Hayman as "ambitious", have a two-year timeline.

It will oversee several reforms, including elephants being given larger habitats, and ending practices such as letting visitors touch fish and cephalopods, including rays and octopuses.

Baroness Hayman said: "We are a nation of animal lovers, and our best zoos and aquariums are truly world leaders in setting the standard for how wild animals should be kept.

"Today's long-overdue reforms lay the foundation for an even stronger, even more compassionate future for all zoos and aquariums - and the animals they protect.

"This is the first step as part of our commitment to deliver the most ambitious animal welfare reforms in a generation."

Dr Jo Judge, chief executive of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums - which represents over 130 zoos and aquariums - has said its members have been "working closely" with Defra officials to update the standards.

"The new standards are a significant step up in legal requirements and cement Britain's position as a global leader for zoos and aquariums," she said.

"We are delighted to see them published today, demonstrating the government's and the sector's commitment to the highest levels of animal care, and helping empower zoos and aquariums to keep leading the fight for nature."

-SKY NEWS