Wildlife experts have offered to help rehome Fife Animal Park’s many creatures who face an uncertain future.
The Courier can reveal a specialist in rehoming exotic animals is prepared to step in to help after the troubled attraction near Collessie closed to the public on Monday.
There are fears some of the animals may have to be put down if they cannot be relocated.
A spokeswoman for the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) said London-based specialist wildlife services had been in touch with Fife Council.
She added: “BIAZA and one of its accredited associates, Specialist Wildlife Services, have been in contact with Fife Council and offered to help. We are currently awaiting a response.
“Specialist Wildlife Services have significant experience in rehoming animals when zoos are forced to shut. BIAZA and its members will provide assistance where possible.”
The Courier has been unable to contact Fife Animal Trust, which took over the management of the park in 2011, for comment.
However, Fife Council gave assurances the animals were being properly fed and cared for.
Roy Stewart from the council’s protective services said: “The welfare of the animals at Fife Animal Park is our primary concern at this time. Although Fife Council doesn’t own the park or the animals it has a duty to protect them and legally they are now in our care.
“Since the park closed, the council has been working closely with the trust staff, the Scottish SPCA, BIAZA and Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator to ensure the animals in the park continue to get all of the care they need on a day-to-day basis.”
After the attraction was taken over by Fife Animal Trust, it was hoped it could be kept open. But last year it was revealed the park and its livestock had been put on the market for £500,000.
The trust was later instructed by Office of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) not to sell the animals and park equipment as these were charitable assets that must be used for charitable purposes.
OSCR said it was not clear what the proceeds would be used for.
Head of enforcement at OSCR Laura Anderson said: “Our concern from the outset has been the welfare of the animals and the protection of charitable assets.
“From the earliest stages of our inquiry we have maintained a close dialogue with Fife Council as the animal welfare authority, the charity’s trustees, and their professional advisors.
“While we continue with our inquiry, we will work with Fife Council to achieve a satisfactory outcome.”