Footage has been shared of animals enjoying attention from their keepers at a popular north-east attraction, closed due to coronavirus lockdown.
Pets’ Corner at Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen has become a firm favourite in the region over the last five decades, with its diverse menagerie receiving thousands of visitors.
But the much-loved residents have not been receiving the usual flood of affection from the public since its closure two weeks ago.
The keepers are continuing to care for the creatures, though they are currently working in isolation, one at a time, at the facility to ensure social distancing rules are followed.
Pets’ Corner underwent a £750,000 renovation in 2017 and expanded upon reopening with a larger fish and reptile house and custom-built home for meerkats.
Since then, meerkat trio Dee, Don and Den have proved very popular with visitors.
Other animal attractions include alpacas, a kune kune pig, geese, turkey, chickens, sheep, goats, a Shetland pony, miniature donkeys, fish, reptiles, budgies, ducks, guinea fowl, canaries, ferrets, rabbits, guinea pigs, and an albino Burmese python.
The city council yesterday shared a video online showing animal attendant Jamie Rennie doing his rounds.
Shown in the footage handling the various animals, including Mr Rennie said: “All the animals are coping pretty well ,although some are a bit more vocal than others, especially Mason the donkey as he seems to hee-haw every time he sees the keepers.
“Mason’s Shetland pony pal, Hector, doesn’t seem too bothered but he’s pretty unsociable at the best of times so we think he just enjoying the peace and quiet!
“All the animals are quite content and they are happy and healthy which is the main thing.
“With a little more free time we can give them all a bit more attention – although Dee the meerkat seems to have an issue with social distancing!
“I’m sure they’re looking forward to seeing people again at Pets’ Corner just as much as the staff are.”
Hazlehead councillor Martin Greig said: “Pets’ Corner is hugely treasured, especially among youngsters and those who don’t have their own pets.
“People have built up strong relationships with the animals and there is a lot of concern and care for their welfare.
“During this temporary lockdown there has been limited contact not only with other people but animals and open spaces.
“This update is reassuring and many of us are looking forward to a time when we’re able to visit when stay at home advice changes.”
