Sat Jan 03 09:10:00 UTC 2026: ## Edinburgh Zoo Cancels Beloved Penguin Parade Amid Bird Flu Fears
Edinburgh, Scotland – Edinburgh Zoo has announced the cancellation of its popular “Wee Waddle” penguin parade due to rising concerns over a potential outbreak of avian influenza. The decision to halt the tourist attraction, which sees penguins walking outside their enclosure, was made to protect the zoo’s bird population.
Jo Elliot, curator for the Royal Zoological Society for Scotland (RZSS), stated that the cancellation was necessary due to “an increased risk of avian influenza in the UK.” The parade, a weekend fixture and visitor favourite, has been suspended “for the foreseeable future.”
The “Wee Waddle” was previously halted due to similar bird flu concerns. It resumed only in May 2024 when the UK was declared free of the virus.
Elliot added that the zoo has enhanced biosecurity measures, including increasing disinfection points, to safeguard all bird species from the virus. “While we know the Wee Waddle is a firm favourite with our visitors, protecting all of our animals is always our top priority,” she emphasized.
The RZSS assured visitors that they are monitoring the situation closely and will reassess the parade’s return when the risk of avian influenza decreases.
First Piper 