Fire rips through children’s mini zoo killing every animal inside

All the animals at a zoo in Hertfordshire have been killed after a blaze ripped through the building.

Fire crews descended on the Jungle Box children’s soft play centre and mini zoo in Watermill Industrial Estate in Buntingford after a ‘significant fire’ was reported around 3.19am on Wednesday.

Meerkats, owls, genets, iguanas and giant tortoises were all caught up in the blaze, as was a 16ft snake.

Smoke was seen billowing into the air as 10 fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to bring the fire under control.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said no people were hurt but confirmed all the animals that were in the building at the time of the fire had died.

People living near the fire were advised to keep windows and doors shut and road closures are in place on Aspenden Road and London Road.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Darren Cook said: ‘In the early hours of the morning we received calls to a significant fire at The Jungle Box in Buntingford.

‘Crews worked hard to contain the fire and prevent it spreading to neighbouring units. I’d like to thank all crews for their professionalism and hard work and fire control colleagues for their calm and efficient handling of the calls.

‘We can confirm that a number of animals were inside the building at the time of the fire and did not survive.’

An investigation to determine the cause of the fire is underway.

The Jungle Box is described as a ‘fun-filled jungle-themed indoor soft play’ featuring slides and tunnels, with an incorporated mini zoo and dedicated space for under-fives.

Metro has contacted the Jungle Box for comment.