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POLAND

The EU Zoo Inquiry 2011

An evaluation of the implementation and enforcement of EC Directive 1999/22

Following the meeting with the Competent Authorities in Poland, pre Report publication, it has become necessary to clarify the following:

As of 10th November 2011, there are 23 licensed zoos in Poland. Those zoos that are currently not licensed, due to the fact that they exhibit smaller numbers and/or species of wild animals (Article 5(11), NPA) are licensed through local licensing, but not regulated under RZ12/2004. These unlicensed establishments are currently not recognised as zoos by the Competent Authorities, nor by the term used in the Report, ‘mini-zoo’.

On a specific note, concerning the photograph of the white-tailed eagles (Haliaeetus africana) at Warszawa Zoo, these birds are apparently rescued animals and are unable to fly due to wing damage. This is the reason why they are not housed in an appropriate enclosure. Clarity of their predicament, perhaps by signage on the enclosure, would help address any public concern for these animals.

Discussions with the General Directorate of Environmental Protection and the Association of Zoo Directors have positively identified the need to make improvements to the Polish zoo law. This particularly concerns the need to categorise zoos dependent upon their capacity and the species kept. It is important to ensure that all establishments exhibiting wild animals to the public are licensed, inspected and participate in realistically achievable practices in conservation and education. It was acknowledged that further improvements are required concerning public education, zoo inspection, public health and safety and animal care, particularly concerning environmental enrichment. 

For more information about The EU Zoo Inquiry 2011, please contact Daniel Turner, Project Manager at daniel@bornfree.org.uk