Staff at Coombe Martin Wildlife and Dinosaur Park in Devon used innovative methods to ensure animal safety after Storm Darragh caused extensive damage, felling three massive trees—some over a century old.
Impact of the Storm
Two trees severed the park’s main powerline, while another crashed through enclosures housing black and white ruffed lemurs and wallabies. Despite the destruction, the animals were found safe within their enclosures when staff arrived.
Head keeper Louisa Bartlett explained:
“Although the trees flattened the fences, the animals were still in their enclosures and alive.”
Creative Solutions for Animal Safety
With the need to act swiftly, the team prioritized relocating the eight wallabies using wheelie bins. Bartlett shared:
“We used a little initiative. Moving the wallabies one at a time in bins prevented them from straying, which would have made them harder to catch.”
Other animals, including African penguins, Oscar the great white pelican, two emus, and reptiles, were also moved to safety.
Extensive Repairs Needed
In addition to animal enclosures, the park suffered damage to its dinosaur figures, and at least 20 trees fell across the property. Repairs are ongoing, with one tree scheduled for removal due to a severe split.
Volunteer Support
The park issued an appeal for help and was overwhelmed by the response, with 36 volunteers arriving on Monday to assist in clearing debris. Bartlett expressed gratitude and welcomed more volunteers to help repair the damage.
Broader Storm Effects
The Mare and Foal Sanctuary, an equine welfare charity, also sustained damage, including overturned field shelters, fallen trees, and canceled Christmas events. Chief Operating Officer Iain Wylie praised the staff’s dedication, noting:
“The only casualties were tree branches, barn panels, a fence, and outdoor shelters.”
The sanctuary’s maintenance team is now focused on clearing debris and repairing structures.
Both organizations are counting the cost of the storm but remain grateful for community and staff support.