Bratislava: New Year's Eve Fireworks Pose Extreme Stress to Animals at Zoo

Bratislava 28 December (TASR) - New Year's Eve is exceptionally stressful for animals at the Bratislava Zoo, Zuzana Dzurdzikova from the zoo's marketing and education department told TASR on Sunday. Located close to a residential area, any fireworks used nearby pose a serious risk to the animals and although long-term public awareness and legislative restrictions help, some people still use them. "Keepers are on maximum alert during this period, but not all consequences can be prevented. It is one of the most demanding moments of the year and could be completely avoided if the people displayed considerate behaviour," Dzurdzikova said. Dzurdzikova underlined that animals do not understand the source of sudden noise and flashes. They perceive them as an immediate threat, which can lead to panic, disorientation and escape behaviour. Animals housed in pavilions are also at risk. "For example, primates may experience increased tension within the group, which can lead to stress-related and aggressive behaviour towards the environment and other group members," Dzurdzikova noted, adding that domestic animals as well as wild birds and other wildlife are also affected. New Year's Eve celebrations are therefore often associated with animal injuries, sometimes fatal. The zoo has recorded cases in which animals, in panic, violently collided with fencing or enclosure elements, requiring veterinary treatment. Each such incident is very serious for both animals and staff. "A young llama was startled by fireworks in the enclosure and crashed into the fencing. It suffered fatal injuries. It had light blue eyes and probably did not see the fencing in time for that reason," Dzurdzikova said. Asked how long it takes for frightened animals to calm down, she said reactions are highly individual. It depends not only on the species but also on the individual animal. Some animals "freeze", others attempt to flee, which is the riskiest response because it can lead to injuries. In some individuals, stress persists longer - they may hide, become apathetic or refuse food. The consequences of stress reactions are also reflected in the animal's cooperation with its keeper. During New Year's Eve night, keepers and a veterinarian are on heightened alert and animals are monitored. However, the zoo's options are limited; the most effective prevention is not using fireworks near the zoo. "This is a situation that can be fundamentally influenced only by responsible behaviour by people," Dzurdzikova said. mf