Dutch zookeeper dies after being mauled in leopard enclosure
The woman began her career at the park when she was 17 and had worked there on-and-off for four decades.
Dutch zookeeper dies after being mauled in leopard enclosure
A seasoned keeper at a Dutch zoo has died several days after being mauled in a leopard enclosure, the safari park has confirmed.
The woman, who had worked at Beekse Bergen park for 40 years, was looking after two Persian leopards in an indoor facility when she was attacked on Saturday.
She suffered head and neck injuries and, despite surgery, the park confirmed on Tuesday that she had died.
The park said an independent investigation will be opened into the incident.
In announcing her death, Beekse Bergen, in the south of the Netherlands, said the keeper started her career there at 17 and had worked there on and off for four decades.
"Her passing has deeply affected us all, and our hearts go out to her family, friends, and loved ones. At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting her family and her colleagues," the statement added.
The two leopards, which are normally kept away from staff, had been moved indoors because of bad weather.
Exactly what happened in the enclosure is unclear because there are no CCTV cameras inside.
She was flown to hospital by helicopter in a critical condition before dying days later.
"They are, and remain, predators."
Beekse Bergen said it would set up a memorial place for guests and staff to leave their condolences.