The zoo achieved the membership by completing a mentoring scheme
with members of two BIAZA associated zoo collections.
All areas of the zoological gardens were assessed during a
series of mentor visits including record keeping, welfare of
animals, ethical review process, licensing, diets, education and
health and safety.
This membership places Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens in a
unique position alongside just two other college collections in the
UK that have BIAZA membership and over 100 other leading zoological
collections in the UK.
Steven Sykes, Animal Resource Centre Manager at Kirkley Hall
Zoological Gardens said: "We have worked very hard since opening
three years ago to ensure that we meet the industry standards set
by BIAZA. The membership shows the public how committed we are to
caring for animals and training students to the highest standards
and industry practices.
"Keepers and students work very hard to ensure our animals are
happy and healthy and as a centre we work closely with other zoos
on breeding programmes and coordinated conservation
activities."
Steve Dickie, Head Keeper at Tropical World in Leeds was one of
the mentors, he said: "It has been a pleasure mentoring Kirkley
Hall Zoological Gardens on behalf of BIAZA, giving advice and
guidance where needed and watching it grow and develop into the
collection it is today.
"There are exciting plans in place for further development and I
will continue to offer my support and guidance as changes are made
to this great little zoo."
Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens provides an excellent learning
environment for animal care students who study at Northumberland
College's Kirkley Hall Campus. Students learn to work in and manage
a realistic environment and have opportunities to practice customer
care and showcase their industry knowledge to the public.
For more information visit www.kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk and www.BIAZA.org.uk
