Twycross Zoo is home to two female Sumatran tigers, including one recently identified at West Midlands Safari Park in Bewdley, Worcestershire.
With Sumatran tigers facing a serious threat of extinction, zoologists have identified a genetically suitable male at a zoo in the Netherlands to support an international breeding programme.
However, arranging his transfer through Belgium and France has proved challenging because of complex post-Brexit regulations and coordination issues.
“We’re focusing on the species that are most endangered and genuinely need help,” Biddle said.
“We work with zoos around the world, particularly across Europe, because protecting endangered species is something we cannot do alone.”
In May, the government announced plans for a new animal movement agreement between the UK and the European Union. Twycross Zoo is now calling on the new prime minister to continue supporting the agreement.
“What we need is for Andy Burnham to keep the pressure on,” Biddle said.
A Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) spokesperson said the department continues to work with European governments on the import and export of zoo animals.
“The government is currently negotiating a sanitary and phytosanitary agreement with the European Union,” they added.
“This agreement would make it easier for zoos to import and export animals to European countries by reducing red tape and removing trade barriers.”
Source: www.bbc.co.uk