Zoo complies, faces ongoing challenges

The Joburg Zoo has reaffirmed its commitment to meet the standards set by the Pan-African Association of Zoos and Aquaria, which conducts regular inspections to ensure the well-being of the animals.

The spokesperson for Joburg City Parks and Zoo, Jenny Moodley, highlighted the institution's dedication to ethical practices, which are overseen by an internal ethics committee.

This committee monitors daily operations, ensuring animals receive proper dietary supplements, medical care, and behavioural enrichment.

The Gauteng department of agriculture, rural development and environment is responsible for overseeing enclosure designs and maintenance, ensuring animals are housed safely.

"The elephant camp has been enhanced with safety features to protect the zoo keepers and, recently, a new owl training facility and climbing frames for the lions were installed," said Moodley.