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Brussels, 12.12.1995 
COM(95) 619 final 
95/0333 (SYN) 
COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE COUNCIL 
and 
Proposal for a 
COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION 
relating to the keeping of wild animals in zoos 
(presented by the Commission) 

COMMUNICATION FROM THE COMMISSION TO THE COUNCIL 
The Commission informs the Council of its decision, in view of the application of the 
principle of subsidiarity, to withdraw its proposal of 31 July 1991 for a Council Directive 
laying down minimum standards for the keeping of animals in zoos(1) and to replace it 
with the attached proposal for a Council Recommendation with regard to the keeping of 
animals in zoos. Such a recommendation is justified in view of the importance which the 
European Parliament, the zoo profession, animal welfare organizations and the 
general public attach to Community involvement in the establishment of standards 
concerning the condition of animals in zoos. 
It is estimated that there are over a thousand zoos in the European Community today, 
exhibiting a wide variety of exotic and non-exotic animals. Collections vary considerably 
from one establishment to another and there are important differences in professionalism, 
experience, financial and staffing resources, facilities1 and the conditions in which animals 
are kept. This is of course mainly due to the significant differences in the legislation of 
Member States on the subject. 
Over the years the keeping of animals in zoos has become subject to increasingly heavy 
criticism from the general public, the media and animal welfare organizations and from 
European Parliament. 
The European zoo profession organized itself in the European Association of Zoos and 
Aquaria (EAZA) and adopted Standards for the Accommodation and Care of Animals in 
Zoos as a condition for membership. 
The guidelines contained in the Annex to the attached proposal for a 
Council Recommendation are largely based on the EAZA standards concerned. 
The Commission is of the opinion that the overall situation in zoos in the Community can 
only be drastically improved if Member States adopt legislation on the subject, providing 
for the licensing of zoos and based on a set of accepted guidelines. 
It therefore recommends that the Council adopt the attached proposal for a 
Recommendation as soon as possible. 
(i) OJNo C 249, 24.9.1991, p. 14. 

Proposal for a 
COUNCIL RECOMMENDATION 
relating to the keeping of wild animals in zoos 
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, 
Having regard to the Treaty establishing the European Community, and in particular 
Article 130s(l) thereof, 
Having regard to the proposal from the Commission0}; 
Having regard to the opinion of the European Parliament; 
Having regard to the opinion of the Economic and Social Committee; 
Whereas Council Regulation (EEC) No 3626/82 of 3 December 1982 on the 
implementation in the Community of the Convention on International Trade in 
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora(2), as last amended by Commission 
Regulation (EC) No 2727/95(3), requires evidence of the availability of adequate facilities 
for the accommodation and care of live specimens of a great many species before their 
importation into the Community is authorized; whereas that Regulation prohibits the 
display to the public for commercial purposes of specimens of species listed in its 
Annex C, Part 1, and in Appendix I to the Convention, unless a specific exemption was 
granted for education, research or breeding purposes; 
Whereas Council Directive 79/409/EEC of 2 April 1979 on the conservation of wild 
birds(4), as last amended by Directive 94/24/EC(5\ and Council Directive 92/43/EEC of 
21 May 1992 on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora(6), as last 
amended by the Act of Accession of Austria, Finland and Sweden, prohibit the capture 
and keeping of and trade in a great number of species, whilst providing for exemptions 
for specific reasons, such as research and education, repopulation, reintroduction and 
breeding; 
Whereas the proper implementation of existing and future Community legislation on the 
conservation of wild fauna and the need to ensure that zoos adequately fulfil their 
important role in public education, scientific research and conservation of species make 
it necessary to provide a common basis for Member States' legislation with regard to the 
licensing and inspection of zoos, the keeping of animals in zoos, the training and safety 
of staff and the education and safety of the visiting public; whereas the guidelines 
contained in the Annex are based upon those established by the European Association for 
Zoos and Aquaria, 
OJNoL384, 31.12.1982, p. 1. 
OJNoL284, 28.11.1995, p. 3. 
OJNoL 103,25.4.1979 , p. 1. 
OJNo L 164, 30.6.1994, p. 9. 
OJNoL206, 22.7.1992, p. 1. 
HEREBY RECOMMENDS THAT: 
1. Member States adopt provisions on the licensing and inspection of existing or new 
zoos(7) within two years following the adoption of this Recommendation. 
2. Licensing should be based on the submission of detailed applications to a competent 
authority designated by the Member States. 
3. Every licence should contain detailed conditions and be reviewed every five years. In 
the intervals, the competent authority should monitor compliance with the conditions 
of the licence and if, at any time, it has reason to believe that the conditions are not 
being met, it should carry out an inspection of the premises and take appropriate steps 
to ensure compliance. 
4. Before granting, refusing or extending a licence, the competent authority should carry 
out an inspection in order to determine whether or not the legislative requirements are 
met. 
5. Inspections should be undertaken by at least one member of the competent authority 
and two experts not involved in the particular establishment to be inspected, one of 
whom should have a broad experience in the management and professional keeping 
of animals in zoos and the other should be a veterinarian with experience in the 
treatment of wild animals. They should draw up an inspection report detailing the 
conditions in the zoo in relation to the legislative requirements and should make 
recommendations with regard to the issuing of a licence. 
6. If it appears from an inspection that the legislative requirements are not, not yet, or 
no longer met, the competent authority should close the zoo to the public. However, 
the competent authority should have the option of issuing a provisional licence 
specifying that the zoo in question shall take the necessary measures to comply with 
the requirements within a maximum period of 12 months from the date of issuance. 
Should the conditions contained in the provisional licence not be complied with within 
this period, the competent authority should withdraw the licence and close the zoo to 
the public. 
7. In the event of a zoo being closed, the competent authority should ensure that the 
animals are disposed of in a proper manner, either by being transferred to a licensed 
zoo or by being destroyed in a humane way. 
8. The provisions referred to in point 1 should, on the basis of the Guidelines for the 
Accommodation and Care of Animals in Zoos, contained in the Annex, ensure that 
all zoos: 
8.1. maintain their animals under conditions which are suited to the behavioural, 
social and biological requirements of the individual species; 
8.2. maintain a high standard of animal husbandry with a developed programme of 
preventive and curative veterinary care, nutrition and scientific breeding; 
8.3. maintain their animals under conditions which ensure their health and safety and 
the health and safety of the staff and the visiting public; 
(7) All permanent establishments where live wild animals are kept for exhibition to the 
public, such as zoological collections, animal parks, safari parks, bird gardens, 
dolphinaria, aquaria and specialist collections such as butterfly collections. 
8.4. keep records, including the number, species, age and sex of the animals kept, the 
numbers and conditions of births, the acquisitions and deaths, and the causes of 
such deaths; 
8.5. display accurate information about each species exhibited, including its scientific 
and common name(s), its range in the wild, its habitat, biological characteristics 
and its conservation status; 
8.6. ensure that there is sufficient and adequately trained staff responsible for the care 
of the animals; 
8.7. provide access for inspectors designated by the competent authority to the 
premises, equipment, animals and records of the establishment at all times; 
8.8. promote the conservation of wild fauna and flora through research, captive 
breeding and the education of the public in this respect. 
Done at Brussels, For the Council 
The President 
ANNEX 
GUIDELINES FOR THE ACCOMMODATION AND CARE OF ANIMALS IN 
ZOOS 
1. Introduction 
1.1. These guidelines are based on present knowledge and practice with regard to the 
accommodation and care of animals in zoos. 
1.2. For the purposes of these guidelines the following definitions shall apply: 
1.2.1. Welfare: the physical, social and behavioural well-being of animals. 
1.2.2. Enclosure: any accommodation provided for animals. 
1.2.3. Enclosure barrier: a barrier to contain an animal within an enclosure. 
1.2.4. Stand-off barrier: a barrier set back from the outer edge of an enclosure barrier 
designed to prevent physical contact between animals and the public. 
1.2.5. Hazardous animals: any animal of the species listed in the appendix to these 
guidelines and any other animal which, because of its individual disposition, 
sexual cycle, maternal instincts, or for any other reason, whether by biting, 
scratching, butting, compression, injecting venom, or by any other methods, is 
likely to injure seriously or transmit disease to humans. 
1.2.6. Dangerous carnivores: any animal of the species listed in the appendix to these 
guidelines marked with an asterisk. 
2. Animal care - welfare, health and hygiene 
2.1. Routine observation of the animals 
2.1.1. The condition and health of all animals are to be checked daily by adequately 
trained staff. 
2.1.2. Any animals which are found to be stressed, sick or injured are to receive 
immediate attention and, where necessary, treatment. 
2.2. Accommodation - space, exercise and grouping 
2.2.1. Animals are to be provided with an interesting environment, space and furniture, 
suited to their behavioural, social and biological needs and which adequately 
allow the exercise needed for their welfare. During periods in which the zoo is 
closed to the public, if any, the animals shall be provided with the same level of 
attention and the same opportunities for exercise as during the rest of the year. 
2.2.2. Enclosures are to be of a size and the animals are to be managed to. 
2.2.2.1. avoid animals within herds or groups being unduly dominated by individuals, 
2.2.2.2. avoid the risk of persistent and unresolved conflict between herd or group 
members or between animals of different species in mixed exhibits, 
2.2.2.3. ensure that the physical carrying capacity of the enclosure is not exceeded, and 
2.2.2.4. prevent an unacceptable build-up of parasites and other pathogens. 
2.2.3. Animals are not to be unnaturally provoked for the benefit of the viewing public. 
2.2.4. Animals of social species are to be kept in compatible social groups typical of 
that species and, except where necessary, not as single specimens. 
2.2.5. Animals in adjoining enclosures are to be of species that do not interact in a 
stressful way. 
2.2.6. Where necessary, separate accommodation is to be provided for pregnant animals 
and animals with young (including eggs) in order to avoid undue stress or 
suffering. 
2.3. Accommodation - comfort and well-being 
2.3.1. The temperature, ventilation and lighting of enclosures are at all times to be 
suitable for the comfort and well-being of all animals of a particular species, 
whereby specific consideration is to be given to the special needs of pregnant 
and new-born animals and to those of recently imported animals. 
2.3.2. Lighting is to be adequate for routine health and hygiene checks and for 
cleaning. Light, wherever artificial, is to be in a spectrum as close as possible to 
that of sunlight and in any case not of an intensity likely to cause discomfort or 
distress to the animals. Light and dark is to be supplied for periods in accordance 
with the seasonal variations of the natural photoperiod of the location of the 
facility where the animals are kept. 
2.3.3. Animals in outdoor enclosures are to be provided with sufficient shelter from 
inclement weather or excessive sunlight where this is necessary for their comfort 
and well-being. 
2.3.4 (Semi-)aquatic animals are only to be kept in open air accommodation if the air 
and water temperature fluctuations are unlikely to result in health or hygiene 
problems. Such pools are to be ice-free at all times where this is required for the 
well-being of the animals concerned. 
2.4. Equipment within enclosures 
2.4.1. Animal enclosures are to be equipped, in accordance with the needs of the 
species concerned, with such items as bedding or nesting material, branchwork, 
burrows, pools and, for (semi-)aquatic animals, materials such as weeds, shingle, 
etc. to aid and encourage natural behaviour patterns. 
2.5. Prevention of stress or harm 
2.5.1. Enclosures, appliances, equipment, furniture and enclosure barriers are to be 
designed, constructed and kept in a condition which presents no risk of stress or 
harm to animals. 
2.5.2. Any defect is to be repaired, or the material replaced, without delay. 
2.5.3. Where a defect is likely to cause harm to animals, it is to be rectified at once or, 
if this is not possible, the animals are to be removed from the possibility of any 
contact with the source of the danger. 
2.5.4. Any vegetation presenting a risk of harming animals is to be kept out of reach. 
2.5.5. Equipment, including engines and electrical devices, is to be installed in such a 
way that it does not present a hazard to animals and that its safe functioning 
cannot be disrupted by them. 
2.5.6. Enclosures are to be kept free of any objects which could present a hazard to 
animals. 
2.5.7. Pools, tanks, aquaria, etc., containing aquatic animals, are not to contain water 
that would be detrimental to the health of the animals. Precautions are to be 
taken to prevent foreign bodies from entering the water. Where the water is 
chemically treated, the chemicals are to be added so as not to cause harm or 
discomfort to the animals. Where chlorine is used, it can be added as chlorine 
gas or as sodiumhypochlorite, dissolved in water. 
2.5.8. Trees within or near enclosures are to be regularly inspected and lopped or felled 
as appropriate to avoid the risk of animals being harmed by falling branches or 
of animals using them as a means to escape. 
2.5.9. Smoking by zoo staff in close proximity to animals or during the preparation of 
their food is to be prohibited. 
2.5.10. Animals are only to be handled by, or under the supervision of, adequately 
trained and authorized staff. Handling should take place without causing physical 
harm, or unnecessary stress or discomfort. 
2.5.11. Any direct physical contact between animals and the visiting public is to take 
place only under the supervision of staff and for periods of time and under 
conditions consistent with the animals welfare and comfort. 
2.6. Food and drink 
2.6.1. Food and drink provided for animals are to be of the nutritive value and quantity 
required for the particular species and for individual animals within each species. 
Account is to be taken of the condition, size, age and activity of each animal and 
the need to allow for special circumstances (e.g. fast days or longer periods of 
fast or hibernation) and special diets for certain animals (e.g. animals undergoing 
veterinary treatment or pregnant animals). 
2.6.2. Veterinary or other specialist advice is to be obtained and followed concerning 
all aspects of nutrition. 
2.6.3. Supplies of food and drink are to be stored, prepared and offered to the animals 
under hygienic conditions. All chemical and bacterial contamination is to be 
avoided. 
2.6.4. Natural behaviour of the animals, including social aspects, are to be considered 
when offering food and drink. Where feeding and drinking receptacles are used 
they should be placed in such a way that they are accessible to every animal kept 
within the enclosure. 
2.6.5. Feeding by the visiting public is to be prohibited in principle, but can be allowed 
on a selective basis. In such cases, suitable food is to be provided or approved 
by the management. 
2.7. Sanitation and control of disease 
2.7.1. Proper standards of hygiene, both in respect of the personal hygiene of staff 
members and that of the animal enclosures and treatment rooms are to be applied 
and enforced. 
2.7.2. Special attention is to be given to the daily cleaning of animal enclosures and the 
equipment therein. Where the enclosure contains water, the quality thereof is to 
be monitored with a view to avoiding the risk of disease. 
2.7.3. Non-toxic cleaning agents are to be readily available together with supplies of 
water and the means to apply them. 
2.7.4. Veterinary advice is to be obtained and followed regarding all cleaning and 
sanitation requirements of enclosures and other areas following the detection of 
an infectious or contagious disease in any animal. 
2.7.5. Enclosures are to be adequately drained in order to avoid excess water. 
2.7.6. Access by animals to open drains, other than those carrying surface water, is to 
be prevented. 
2.7.7. Refuse material is to be regularly removed and disposed of. 
2.7.8. A safe and effective programme for the control of pests and, where applicable, 
predators is to be established and enforced throughout the zoo. 
2.7.9. Animal keepers and other staff are to be instructed to immediately report their 
contraction of or contact with any infection which could be transmitted to 
animals or otherwise negatively affect their health. The management is to take 
adequate action on the basis of such reports. 
2.7.10. Animal keepers and other staff are further to be instructed to report any disability 
that might affect their capability to take care of animals in a safe and competent 
manner. 
3. Animai care - veterinary aspects 
3.1. Suitable arrangements must have been made for routine veterinary attendance of 
all animals0} on the basis of a programme supervised by a veterinarian. 
3.2. This programme shall provide for routine examinations and parasite checks as 
well as the administration of preventive medicine, including vaccination, at 
regular intervals. 
3.3. Where a full veterinary service is located within the zoo, the facilities are to 
include: an examination table, a range of basic surgical instruments, anaesthetic 
facilities, basic diagnostic instruments, sufficient power points to take light and 
other electrical fittings, facilities to take blood and other samples and to prepare 
and despatch them and a comprehensive range of drugs. 
3.4. Where a full veterinary service is not available within the zoo, a treatment room 
is to be provided at the premises for use for the undertaking of routine 
examination of animals in clean, well-ventilated and well-lighted surroundings. 
3.5. Adequate space and facilities are to be available for the care of stressed, sick and 
injured animals and for the hand-rearing and nursing of animals. 
3.6. Adequate facilities are to be available for collecting, restraining and anaesthetiz­
ing animals, their humane euthanization and for the after-care of animals 
recovering from sedation. 
3.7. Accommodation is to be available, separated from other animals, for the isolation 
and examination of newly arrived animals. 
3.8. Newly arrived animals are to kept isolated as long as necessary and proper 
examination is to be ensured before contact with other animals in the collection. 
3.9. Particular attention is to be paid to hygiene in the areas where isolated or 
quarantined animals are kept. 
3.10. If instructed by the veterinarian in charge, protective clothing and utensils used 
in an isolation area are to be used, cleaned and stored only in that area. 
3.11. Restricted drugs, vaccines and other products are to be safely stored and 
accessible to authorized persons only. 
3.12. The administration of restricted drugs is to take place only under the direction 
of a veterinarian. 
3.13. In consultation with a veterinarian, arrangements are to be made for the holding 
of supplies of antidotes or potentially toxic products by either the zoo, a local 
hospital or the veterinarian himself. 
3.14. All unwanted or contaminated veterinary equipment is to be disposed of in a safe 
manner. 
(i) In the case of fishes and invertebrates other appropriate specialist attendance is 
acceptable. 
10 
4. Post-mortem facilities 
4.1. Dead animals are to be handled in such a manner as to avoid the risk of 
transmission of infections. 
4.2. The cause of death of animals is to be established through examination by a 
veterinarian, a pathologist or another person with relevant experience and 
training, unless the cause is evident or examination impracticable. 
4.3. Where carcases cannot be quickly transferred to a professional veterinary 
laboratory outside the zoo, facilities are to be provided for conducting 
post-mortem examinations and the processing of resulting samples in a safe and 
hygienic manner. Where immediate post-mortems are not possible, refrigerated 
or deep-freeze facilities are to be available pending the transfer in a suitable 
insulated container to a post-mortem laboratory. 
4.4. Facilities and equipment in areas provided for post-mortem examinations are to 
include: an efficient drainage system, washable floors and walls, an examination 
table, an adequate selection of post-mortem instruments, facilities for the taking 
and preservation of samples and, if large animals are kept, a hoist. 
4.5. Following post-mortem examinations, carcases and organs are to be removed 
quickly and disposed of in a safe manner. 
4.6. The fullest possible scientific or educational use of any biological specimens and 
post-mortem material is to be ensured through liaison between the veterinary 
profession, research workers and other interested parties. 
5. Safety and security 
5.1. Enclosures 
5.1.1. Hazardous animals are to be kept within enclosures and may only move outside 
enclosures under the supervision of authorized staff. Free-running, non-hazardous, 
animals are to be kept within the perimeter of the zoo. 
5.2. Enclosure barriers 
5.2.1. Enclosure barriers, including gates and doors, are to be designed, constructed and 
maintained so as to contain animals securely within the enclosure. 
5.2.2. In order to avoid direct contact between the visiting public and hazardous 
animals through, under or over any enclosure barrier, stand-off barriers shall 
adequately prevent such contact. 
5.3. Perimeter boundaries 
5.3.1. Perimeter boundaries, including points of entry and exit, are to be designed; 
constructed and maintained so as to discourage unauthorized entry and as an aid 
to confine animals to the perimeter of the zoo. 
5.3.2. No perimeter barriers are to include any electrical section less than two metres 
from the ground, except where it also serves as an enclosure barrier and cannot 
be reached by the visiting public. 
11 
5.4. Warning signs 
5.4.1. In addition to stand-off barriers, each enclosure representing a safety hazard is 
to be equipped with an adequate number of clearly visible and readable warning 
signs. 
5.5. Exits 
5.5.1. Having regard to the size of the zoo and the anticipated maximum number of 
visitors, an adequate number of exits is to allow the evacuation of the visiting 
public in the case of an emergency. 
5.5.2. Exits are to be clearly signposted and marked as such. 
5.5.3. Each exit is to be kept clear and is to be easily opened from the inside. They are, 
however, to be designed in such a way as to discourage the escape of animals. 
5.6. Drive-through enclosures 
5.6.1 Where dangerous carnivores and primates are kept in drive-through enclosures, 
entries and exits thereof are to be provided with a system of double gates with 
sufficient space between them to allow the gates to be securely closed to the 
front and rear of any entering or leaving vehicle. This system of double gates is 
to be designed, constructed and maintained in such a way that, when animals are 
within or have access to the space secured by the gates, one gate cannot be 
opened unless the other is securely closed. Provided that this causes no danger 
to the public, provisions may be made for this system to be overridden in the 
case of an emergency. Entry and exit gates are to be protected by fencing of the 
same standard as that of the main enclosure barrier and on each side of the road, 
positioned at right angles to the perimeter fence and extending back from the 
entry or exit for a distance of at least 25 metres. 
5.6.2. For other hazardous animals in drive-through enclosures, except for grazing or 
hoofed animals that can be confined to the enclosure by cattle grids, single entry 
and exit gates that are supervised by staff at all times are to be provided. 
5.6.3. Access points between drive-through enclosures are to be constructed in such a 
way as to prevent animals from entering adjoining enclosures. 
5.6.4. Electrical pressure pads for the operation of gates of drive-through enclosures, 
if any, are to be designed, installed and maintained so as to ensure that in the 
event of a failure any gate they control will close automatically and prevent 
animals from leaving the enclosure. 
5.6.5. Mechanically operated gates of drive-through enclosures must be provided with 
an alternative system allowing them to be closed or opened manually in case of 
a power failure or emergency. In the case of a power failure they must close 
automatically. 
5.6.6. Operators of mechanically operated gates of drive-through enclosures are to have 
a clear, unobstructed view of the gates under their control and of the area in the 
vicinity thereof. 
5.6.7. Drive-through enclosures are to have a one-way road system allowing the 
regulation of the traffic flow. Stopping is to be permitted only at places where 
the road is at least 6 metres wide. 
5.6.8. Where dangerous carnivores, primates and any other hazardous animals are kept 
in a drive-through enclosure: 
12 
5.6.8.1. No vehicle is to be allowed in unless a rescue vehicle capable of ensuring its 
immediate recovery is available. 
5.6.8.2. Access to vehicles without a solid roof is to be prohibited at all times. 
5.6.8.3. An adequate number of notices, readily visible and easy to read, are to instruct 
visitors to (a) stay in their vehicles at all times, (b) keep all doors securely 
locked, (c) keep windows and sunroofs closed, (d) sound the horn and/or flash 
the headlights in the case of a break-down and to await the arrival of a rescue 
vehicle. 
5.6.9. Whilst open to the public, the entire area of a drive-through enclosure containing 
any hazardous animal is to be observed continuously. Supervising staff is to be 
appropriately equipped with firearms and adequately trained in their use so that 
an animal can be killed in case of an emergency and where this is necessary to 
save human life or prevent injury. 
5.7. Removal of animals from enclosures 
5.7.1. Hazardous animals are not to be allowed outside their usual enclosures, except 
where, under the individual supervision of authorized staff, there is no risk of 
injury or the transmission of disease to the public. 
5.7.2. Sufficient caution is to be exercised In the case of removing non-hazardous 
animals from their enclosures, as they may behave in an unpredictable way under 
such circumstances. 
5.7.3. Adequate precautions are to be taken to avoid injury to visitors and animals 
when animals are used for rides. 
5.7.4. Any animal taken outside the zoo is to be supervised by an authorized and 
adequately trained staff member and provisions are to be made for its safety and 
well-being at all times. 
5.7.5. Any hazardous animal taken outside the zoo is to be kept under safe conditions 
at all times. Direct contact with persons other than authorized and adequately 
trained staff or other competent persons is to be avoided. 
5.7.6. Facilities suitable for hoisting, crating and transportation of animals in the 
collection are to be readily available. 
5.8. Escape of animals from their enclosures 
5.8.1. The management is to assess whether any danger may arise in the event of an 
animal escaping from its enclosure and to consider the possible or likely escape 
route within and from the zoo. 
5.8.2. Emergency plans must be available and fully understood and practised by all 
staff. 
5.8.3. Emergency plans are to provide for the permanent availability of a staff member 
competent to take decisions with regard to escaped animals, including the use of 
firearms if needed. 
5.8.4. Every staff member with tasks under emergency plans is to undergo a period of 
initial training, regular refresher training and practice. 
13 
5.9. Safety of the visiting public 
5.9.1. Buildings, structures and areas accessible to the public are to be maintained in 
a safe condition. 
5.9.2. Trees within areas accessible to the public are to be regularly inspected and 
lopped or felled as appropriate. 
5.9.3. Walkways and roads over and tunnels under animal enclosures are to be 
designed, constructed and maintained so as to safely withstand the maximum 
possible weight on them at any given time. They are to be out of reach of 
hazardous animals in order to avoid contact between such animals and the 
visiting public. They must be protected from possible damage to their 
construction by animals. 
5.9.4. Warning signs are to be foreseen at all places where a person might fall (edges, 
water, etc.) and where necessary such places are to be guarded by adequate 
barriers. 
5.9.5. The visiting public is not to be allowed to enter any buildings which represent 
a risk to its health and safety. Such places are to be locked and equipped with 
warning notices to that effect. 
5.9.6. Other restricted areas are to be clearly defined, e.g. by means of barriers and 
warning notices. 
5.10. Emergency first aid 
5.10.1. First-aid equipment and written first-aid instructions are to be readily accessible 
on the premises. 
5.10.2. Where venomous animals are kept, the appropriate and up-to-date anti-venom is 
to be available and kept in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer. 
5.10.3. Written instructions are to be given to staff with regard to the procedure to be 
followed in the event of an incident involving any venomous animal and a 
person. These instructions are to include: (a) the immediate action to be taken, 
(b) a form containing the information required by à local hospital, such as the 
nature of the bite or sting and the species inflicting it, the specification of the 
anti-venom administered to or accompanying the victim, the name of the person 
responsible at the zoo and his telephone number. 
6. Record keeping 
6.1. The zoo is to keep records of each individually recognizable animal and group 
of animals that is or was part of the collection. 
6.2. These records are to be either in the form of a card index system or by a 
computerized system, allowing the quick retrieval and examination of 
information. Use of the ISIS-ARKS system is to be preferred. Permanent back-up 
copies of all records are to be kept and safely stored. 
6.3. Records are to include the following information: 
6.3.1. The current scientific and, where available, common name of the species. 
6.3.2. The origin, i.e. where the animal was taken from the wild or born in captivity, 
identification of parents (if known) and previous location(s). 
14 
6.3.3. The sex of the animals (where this can be established). 
6.3.4. The date or estimated date of birth. 
6.3.5. Any natural or artificial distinguishing marks. Where necessary, these are, apart 
from a clear description, to be available from colour photographs or drawings. 
6.3.6. Clinical data, including details on the condition of animals, the administration of 
drugs and other treatment and dates thereof. 
6.3.7. Where appropriate, social behaviour and social status, including any incompati­
bility, conflicts and particular behaviour. 
6.3.8. Where appropriate and feasible, information on the past and present reproductive 
performance of the animal and the details of any offspring. 
6.3.9. The date of death and the result of any post-mortem examinations. 
6.3.10. Where an animal has escaped, caused damage or injury, details thereof and of 
remedial measures taken to prevent repetition. 
6.3.11. The date of entry into the collection, or the date of disposal, to whom and for 
what purpose. 
6.4. Any document required under legislation on the conservation or protection of the 
species is to be available for examination. 
6.5. Animals moving to new locations are to be accompanied by copies of all relevant 
records and documents. 
6.6. In addition to individual records, an annual stocklist of all animals kept in the 
collection is to be available which includes: 
6.6.1. Current scientific and common names of species. 
6.6.2. Total number per species and sex(*} in the collection on 1 January. 
6.6.3. Number of animals per species and sex added to the collection from the outside 
during the year. 
6.6.4. Number of births per species and sex^. 
6.6.5. Number of deaths per species and sex^. 
6.6.6. Number, species and sex(*} of animals disposed of, i.e. through sales, loans, etc. 
6.6.7. Total number per species and sex(*) in the collection on 31 December. 
(*} Including unsexed animals. 
15 
6.7. The model of the stocklist under 6.6. is to be as follows: 
Common 
name 
aaa Scientific 
name 
bbb Total 
number 
• i7i 
1.1.1 Arrivals 
1.1.1 Births 
1.1.1 Deaths 
1.1.1 Live ani­
mals dis­
posed of 
1.1.1 Total 
number 
1/1 
1.1.1 
7. Disposal of surplus animals 
7.1. Where animals in the collection need to be disposed of, it is to be ensured that their 
sale or transfer is not to private indivuals, unless the individual concerned success­
fully breeds the species involved and/or has the appropriate experience and facilities. 
No animals are to be transferred to animal dealers, circuses or for use in harmful 
experiments. 
7.2. In the event that an animal needs to be euthanized, this is to take place in a humane 
way. 
8. Provisions with regard to endangered or threatened species 
8.1. Specimens of species subject to international, Community or national legislation on 
their conservation are to be acquired and disposed of in full compliance with the 
provisions applicable to them. 
8.2. The captive breeding of species which are extinct in the wild or threatened (IUCN) 
is, where available, to take place as part of an international or regional studbook and 
captive breeding programme. 
9. Requirements with regard to educational activities 
9.1. The zoo is to have an information and education programme for visitors and in 
particular for school parties, based on an understanding of the biology, ecology and 
conservation of animals in the collection. 
9.2. Adequate facilities gre to be available for lectures and study groups. 
9.3. The development and maintenance of the education programme is to take place on 
the basis of the advice of a qualified person with experience in teaching and biology. 
9.4. As part of the education programme, a scientifically accurate brochure is to be 
available to the visiting public on the biology and ecology of groups of animals in 
the collection and their conservation status in the wild. 
9.5. Enclosures are to be equipped with signs providing accurate information about the 
species exhibited, including their scientific and common names, their range in the 
wild, habitat, biological characteristics, behaviour and conservation status. 
9.6. Whenever shows involving wild animals are given, they are to be based on the 
animal's natural behaviour. Any commentary given is to be based on biological facts 
that invite the public to observe the animal's behaviour. 
16 
10. Research 
10.1. Where specimens are acquired with a view to carry out research, the management is 
to cooperate with other zoos, research institutions, universities and nature conserva­
tion organizations. 
11. Staff 
11.1. A sufficient number of adequately trained and competent staff is to be employed to 
maintain high standards of husbandry at all times. 
17 
APPENDDC 
HAZARDOUS ANIMALS AND DANGEROUS CARNIVORES REFERRED TO IN 
POINTS 1.2.5. AND 1.2.6. OF THE GUIDELINES FOR THE ACCOMMODATION 
AND CARE OF ANIMALS IN ZOOS 
Notes: 
Domestic animals are excluded from this appendix. 
The animals mentioned can harm human beings or other animals because of their 
physical strength, specific weapons such as poison, and behaviour. 
Animals not contained in this appendix can, under circumstances, also be hazardous. 
Dangerous carnivores are indicated with an asterisk (*). 
Mammals 
Marsupials 
Adult males of Macropus rufus, M. fuliginosus and M. robustus 
Primates 
Adult specimens of Pongidae spp and Hylobatidae spp 
Adult males of Cercopithecidae spp, except Macaca sylvana, and Cebidae spp 
Carnivores 
All specimens of Ursidae spp*, Ailuropoda melanoleuca, Canis lupus*, Canis rufus*, Lycaon 
pictus*, Mellivom capensis, Gulo gulo, Hyaenidae spp (except Proteles cristatus and of which 
Crocuta crocuta* ), Pqnthera spp* 
Pinnipeds 
Adult males of Otariidae spp and Halichoerus gryphus 
All specimens of Odobenus rosmarus, Mirounga spp and Hydrurga leptonyx 
Cetaceans 
All specimens of Orcinus orca 
18 
Elephants 
All specimens of Elephantidae spp of over two years of age 
Odd-toed ungulates 
Adult males of Equidae spp 
All specimens of Rhinocerotidae spp 
Adult males of Tapiridae spp 
Even-toed ungulates 
Adult specimens of Suidae spp and Tayassuidae spp 
All specimens of Hippopotamidae spp 
Males in rut of Camelidae spp 
Adult specimens of A Ices alces 
All specimens of Elaphurus davidianus 
Males in rut of Cervus spp, Rangifer spp and Capreolus spp 
All specimens of Giraffidae spp 
Males of Boselaphus tragocamelus, Taurotragus spp, Addax nasomaculatus, and Kobus spp 
All specimens of Hippotragus spp, Oryx spp, Connochaetes spp, A Icelaphus spp, Bison spp, 
Bos spp, Syncerus spp and Ovibos moschatus 
All males of Budorcas taxicolor 
All males in rut of Caprinae spp in rut 
Birds 
Ratites 
All specimens of Struthio camelus 
All specimens of Dromaius novaehollandiae during the breeding season 
All specimens of Casuarius spp 
All specimens of Rhea americana and Pterocnemia pennata during the breeding season 
Storks and herons 
All specimens of Ardeagoliath, Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis, Xenorhynchus asiaticus and 
Leptoptilos spp 
Cranes 
All specimens of Gruidae spp during the breeding season 
19 
Birds of prey and owls 
All specimens of Falconiformes spp and Strigiformes spp 
Hombills 
All specimens of Bucorvus spp 
Reptiles 
Crocodiles 
All specimens of Alligatoridae spp, Crocodylidae spp, Gavialidae spp 
Lizards 
All specimens of Helodermatidae spp 
All specimens of Vamnus komodoensis, V. varius and V. salvator of over 1.5 metres in length 
Snakes 
All specimens of Boidae spp of over 3 metres in length 
All specimens of Dispholidus typus, Thelotomis kirtlandii, Elapidae spp, Hydrophiidae spp, 
Viperidae spp and Crotalidae spp 
Fishes 
Cartilaginous fishes 
All specimens of Myliobatoidei 
Bony fishes 
All specimens of Synanceja sp, Inimicus sp, Pterois sp and Trachinus sp 
20 
Invertebrates 
Arthropods 
All specimens of certain species of Orthognatha and Scorpiones 
Molluscs 
All specimens of certain species of Conidae spp 
All specimens of Hapalochlaena maculosa 
21 
ISSN 0254-1475 
COM(95) 619 final 
DOCUMENTS 
EN 14 
Catalogue number : CB-CO-95-652-EN-C 
ISBN 92-77-97094-4 
Office for Official Publications of the European Communities 
L-2985 Luxembourg