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Edinburgh Zoo has made the tough decision to pause its popular penguin parade - affectionately known as the “Wee Waddle” - due to increasing concerns about avian influenza in the UK.
For decades, the Wee Waddle has been one of the zoo’s most cherished attractions, drawing visitors keen to see gentoo, northern rockhopper, and king penguins strutting alongside keepers and greeting park guests. What began as a happy accident - a gate left open by a keeper decades ago - quickly became a daily highlight for families and wildlife lovers alike.
However, with avian influenza cases on the rise across Scotland and the UK, zoo officials say they must prioritize animal health above all else. The decision comes amid heightened risk assessments that place wild bird infections and the potential spread to captive collections at a high level, even with strong biosecurity measures in place. Scottish Government
“Due to an increased risk of avian influenza in the UK, we have made the decision to postpone our Wee Waddle for the foreseeable future,” zoo representatives announced, emphasizing that the welfare of the penguins and all birds at the facility comes first. The Scottish Sun
Why This Matters
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a highly pathogenic virus that continues to circulate in wild bird populations and has occasionally spilled over into domestic and captive birds. In Scotland, recent outbreaks of the H5N1 strain have been confirmed in several areas, prompting authorities to maintain strict Avian Influenza Prevention Zones and ongoing biosecurity protocols. Scottish Government
This virus doesn’t just threaten poultry farms - it can also affect birds in zoos and wildlife parks, which often house species more sensitive to infection. While there’s no indication of human risk from this particular pause, facilities like Edinburgh Zoo must remain vigilant to prevent exposure among their carefully managed animal communities.
Zoo & Visitor Reactions
The announcement has drawn mixed emotions. Many visitors - both local and international - expressed disappointment online, sharing how much they had looked forward to the Wee Waddle each season. Still, the overwhelming sentiment supports the zoo’s caution, with many recognizing that protecting the penguins is essential.
One supporter commented, “Sad to see this, but safety first for our wee gems.” Another added, “Better safe than sorry.” The Scottish Sun
A Tradition Worth Protecting
The Wee Waddle has a long and affectionate history at Edinburgh Zoo, stretching back over 70 years before its temporary halt during the pandemic and previous avian flu scares. Even when it returned in late 2024 with a scaled‑down weekend schedule to avoid disrupting the penguins’ breeding season, it remained a symbol of the zoo’s fun and interactive approach to conservation outreach. edinburghzoo.org.uk
Zoo leadership says they hope conditions will improve, allowing the event to safely return in the future - but for now, health and safety come first.
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