The Sea Life London Aquarium has threatened the Daily Express newspaper with legal action over coverage of its penguin display.
Attraction operators Merlin Entertainments said that it would be “forced to take legal action” unless the newspaper removed the word ‘captive’ from a recent article.
On 5 March, the Daily Express published an article covering a recent initiative by campaigners Freedom for Animals.
The article quoted a Dr Andrew Kelly as saying: “Sea Life London Aquarium has a tiny basement enclosure in which a colony of Gentoo penguins spend their lives.”
Today, the Daily Express said that it had been contacted by Merlin, who said it would be forced to take legal action should a reference to ‘captive’ remain.
The Gentoo is the third largest species of penguin after the Emperor and King species. A chick was born in the London Aquarium last year.
‘Welfare checked and monitored’
A Sea Life spokesperson told the Daily Express that the welfare of all the animals was of “paramount importance”.
“We are committed to delivering the highest levels of care by our team of experts, both internal and external,” the said.
“The Gentoo penguin habitat at Sea Life London Aquarium was designed with help and advice from specialist vets.
“It offers a consistent and appropriate temperature and lighting that stimulates the penguins’ annual moulting, nesting and breeding patterns.
“Within the specially designed habitat, the air is constantly filtered to ensure the penguins are protected from pollution or airborne diseases, such as avian flu.
“A dedicated care regime has been specifically designed for the colony, with all aspects of each bird’s welfare regularly checked and monitored.”