"Merlin Entertainments, which owns the aquarium, held a meeting with independent experts and animal welfare groups following a campaign against the captivity of 15 gentoo penguins. The company said: "The discussion was open, constructive and rightly challenging at times." Previously, 75 MPs joined animal welfare activists calling for the release of the penguins, described as "trapped in a basement without sunlight or fresh air" at the aquarium."
"Merlin Entertainments previously said its welfare team cares for the penguins daily to keep them healthy and thriving, and their enclosure is on the ground floor, not in a basement. The company explained that the recent meeting was "to explore and discuss a range of perspectives and options, including from those who believe a different approach is needed". Considerations ranged from further improvements to the existing penguin habitat to the possibility of rehoming them at another location."
Sea Life London Aquarium and owner Merlin Entertainments met with independent experts and animal welfare groups after a campaign opposing captivity of 15 gentoo penguins. Seventy-five MPs and activists had called for the penguins' release amid claims they were "trapped in a basement without sunlight or fresh air"; Merlin maintains the enclosure is on the ground floor and that welfare staff care for the birds daily. Options considered included habitat improvements, rehoming, and establishment of a sanctuary. A series of actions focusing on short- and long-term welfare were agreed. Further work is required, breeding will remain paused, and dialogue will continue in early 2026.
Read at www.bbc.com
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