The Exotic Animal World in Klapmuts, previously known as Butterfly World, faced near-extinction when a fire erupted in its food and special-care quarters on Sunday morning around 07:30.
According to a statement from the centre’s management on Facebook later that day, a fire broke out in the Animal Care Centre of Exotic Animal World before opening time on Sunday morning.
“A staff member who had come in early saw the blaze and raised the alarm. The fire brigade managed to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent enclosures, for which we are extremely grateful.”
This is a bittersweet tragedy since most animals survived the life threatening blaze. Yet Exotic’s staff are still sad over losses sustained, especially its food supply which was totally consumed.
“We have lost our food supply and damage to the building and animal kitchen is extensive,” the centre’s post said. “It is extremely traumatising for our staff who are still working to make a full assessment of the situation.”
Its Educational Manager, Helani Driers, told Paarl Post there were significant other losses as well.
She confirmed numerous animals had also perished, from snakes to slugs, hissing cockroaches as well as mammals.
“We are hurting tremendously. Every animal life had a name which we knew by heart. We also render care services to animals outside our ownership.”
Driers explained that in some cases certain animals needed a controlled environment to be at their best health, which was offered at Exotic. Unfortunately, some of these also lost their lives in the fire.
“Although the adjacent enclosures were unaffected by the fire and the birds and animals in them are unscathed, we are closely monitoring them for possible smoke inhalation. A veterinary nurse is on site assisting with that.”
She said the centre was working very closely with Cape Exotic Animal Hospital (CEAH). Driers said its care facilities had to be rebuilt as they weren’t even able to use blankets that were not affected by active fires.
“We wanted to wrap one of our monkeys in a blanket, for instance. But we soon realised we couldn’t use it since the smell of smoke would send our animals into a panicked state, which is the last thing we need right now.”
Even the centre’s washing facilities are now lost, which means whatever materials that remain cannot be washed.
“It is going to take time for all involved to come to terms with what happened. The support has been overwhelming.
“We can’t keep up with the incoming donations and relief. Some even brought cookies for the staff.”
The cause of the fire had not yet been confirmed by the time of going to print.
Exotic Animal World on the R44 near the N1-highway remains open to the public, although its staff have cordoned off the affected area.
“To everyone who cares in this extremely difficult time a heartfelt thank you. We are still open, as well as Cafe Lemur, so come and enjoy a lovely meal. Please come and support us at this difficult time.”
For more information on how to assist Exotic Animal World follow its Facebook page for a list of necessities as well as bank details.
