Children’s zoo destroyed in fire did not have a licence

The blaze broke out at The Jungle Box on the Watermill Industrial Estate in Buntingford during the early hours of June 10, 2026. Ten fire engines and an aerial ladder platform were sent to the scene as firefighters battled to prevent the flames from spreading to neighboring buildings.

No people were reported injured, but the consequences for the animals inside were catastrophic.

Almost Every Animal Was Lost

The Jungle Box combined children’s soft play facilities with a collection of small and exotic animals.

Among the animals reportedly housed there were meerkats, owls, iguanas, genets, and a large snake measuring around 16 feet.

Firefighters later confirmed that almost all of the animals inside had died.

There was, however, one remarkable survivor.

A baby tortoise was discovered alive among the wreckage, providing a small moment of hope amid an otherwise devastating scene.

The Licensing Questions

The most troubling development following the fire concerns the facility’s licensing status.

Reports circulating after the incident stated that the mini zoo was operating without the required licence.

That revelation has prompted questions about how facilities displaying exotic animals are monitored and whether stronger enforcement could help prevent similar tragedies.

Licensing requirements exist in part to ensure that facilities keeping animals for public display meet appropriate standards for animal welfare, management, and safety.