Eerie images depict the almost empty crocodile enclosure where a young child was severely injured earlier this summer. While Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Cambs saw numerous families visiting during peak school holidays, only a handful explored the Tropical House where the incident occurred.
One observer noted minimal foot traffic in the house, with just one adult and a child present, while other families with strollers passed by. The typically bustling elevated walkways within the enclosure were eerily quiet, with safety barriers left unattended. The Tropical House, housing various crocodile species like Nile, Saltwater, and Siamese, displayed signs emphasizing child supervision and caution against carrying children on shoulders or railings.
Despite the somber atmosphere in the crocodile area, the rest of the zoo, including a steakhouse, tea room, and shop, bustled with families enjoying the holiday season. The incident on June 18, where a three-year-old boy ended up in the crocodile enclosure, led to the arrest of a 30-year-old man with learning difficulties. Owner Tracey Johnson’s brave rescue of the boy from the crocodile pen was commended by Chris Newman of the National Centre for Reptile Welfare.
The boy, currently stable after the ordeal, underwent extensive surgeries to repair severe tissue damage on his arms, neck, head, and face. His family expressed relief at his progress and posted updates on his recovery journey. An inquiry by Norfolk County Council under the Care Act 2014 aims to safeguard adults with care needs, and a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to aid the boy’s rehabilitation and support his family during this challenging period.
