News

Historic aviaries to close

One of the UK's most famous bird collections, at Leeds Castle in Kent, is set to close.

The collection, which was originally started by Leeds Castle owner Lady Baillie in the early part of the twentieth century, has more than 100 species and is world-renowned for its work in breeding rare species, such as the blue-crowned laughing­thrush.

Laura Gardner, curator of birds at Leeds Castle aviaries for more than 23 years, confirmed the closure. She said: "Sadly it is true. The Trustees have made the decision to close the aviary next October [2012]. We are preparing to find homes for all the stock and of course try to find new jobs for the team of keepers. It's a blow to the whole team. I have seen the collection develop and become renowned for its successful work with a number of species such as toucans and blue-crowned laughingthrushes. I will stay until the aviary closes its doors and the last bird has been rehomed."

Victoria Wallace, chief executive of Leeds Castle, said: "The aviary was originally conceived as an added attraction for visitors, inspired by Lady Baillie's own love of birds. But zoo collections are now all about global conservation, research and education, rather than for entertainment. Those high standards are very difficult to achieve without funding and expert backing of a major zoological institution."

The £200,000 a year saving from closing the aviaries will be ploughed back into the cost of running the house at Leeds Castle.

Ms Wallace said: "The foundation has nothing but praise for the professional achievements of curator of birds Laura Gardner and her dedicated team of birdkeepers. We will support them over the next year in finding permanent homes for the birds."