Edinburgh Zoo has issued a fresh plea for people to avoid letting off fireworks as Hogmanay approaches – after Bonfire Night blasts led to the death of an endangered baby red panda.
Three-month-old kit Roxie died after choking on her own vomit from “stress” caused by fireworks, as explosions boomed across the city throughout the evening.
Her mother Ginger also died unexpectedly just five days earlier, which was suspected to have been linked to fireworks.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has since called for tighter restrictions on fireworks and support from locals to help keep the animals safe.
Ben Supple, the wildlife conservation charity’s deputy chief executive, said, “Edinburgh Council cannot create a fireworks exclusion zone around the zoo in time for Hogmanay due to the minimum consultation period required, so we are asking residents to help by not setting off fireworks which may frighten animals.
“As always, we will do all we can to protect animals in the zoo from fireworks, including keeping them indoors and providing deep bedding where possible to reduce the impact of the noise.”
The charity’s call for increased restrictions on fireworks has received enormous support since Roxie’s death in November.
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Ben added, “We have been inundated by messages from people who were shocked by what happened to Roxie and believe the UK government should ban fireworks from being sold to the public due to the severe impact they can have on animals.
“Firework control zones are a positive step but only part of the solution as the noise from explosions can carry over long distances.
“So-called silent fireworks are also an improvement, though they can emit low frequency sounds which can cause distress to animals.
“We believe displays should be restricted to organised events which use the latest light and drone technology and are completely silent.
“This would help avoid devastating consequences for animals while ensuring that people can still enjoy traditional celebrations like Hogmanay.”
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