Dutch Zookeeper Dies After Being Mauled by Leopard
BBC News reports on the tragic passing of an experienced zoo keeper at Beekse Bergen park in the Netherlands, who was mauled by a leopard on Saturday.
The woman, who had worked at the zoo for 40 years, was caring for two Persian leopards in an indoor facility when the incident occurred. She sustained serious head and neck injuries and required emergency surgery, but sadly passed away on Tuesday.
An independent investigation will be launched, and the park expressed its profound sorrow, stating, "Her passing has deeply affected us all... Our hearts go out to her family, friends, and loved ones."
The two leopards, usually kept away from staff, were brought inside due to bad weather. Despite her injuries, the keeper reportedly used her walkie-talkie to alert colleagues. The leopards, behaving naturally, will not be euthanized, as they "remain, and are, predators."
Beekse Bergen plans to create a memorial location for visitors and staff to pay their respects.