BIRDWORLD is stepping up security measures - following a recent break -in and a national concern about increases in thefts of rare and exotic birds and animals.
In recent weeks a gang of youths broke into the tourist attraction by climbing over a fence at night.
The yobbos raided drinks machines and children's rides in the pursuit of cash, but the break-in has sparked off more serious concerns about security in the light of a national increase in thefts of rare birds and animals.
A Birdworld spokesman said: "While security is always high on the agenda here, we are currently taking some measures to improve it. We are looking at CCTV cameras and other security devices."
He added that, through liaising with The Federation of Zoos, a trend has been seen where by thefts from zoos and animal parks have appeared more organised.
While these thefts have been largely targeted at primates, birds are at risk as well.
"What tends to happen in these sorts of incidents," he said, "is that, either a day or a couple of days before the break in, you will get individuals coming round doing a kind of recce of the collection.
"This will involve having a look at what species you've got, as well as your security - seeing how the birds are housed and how easily this housing can be gained access to. They might be thinking about what tools and equipment they will need for the job."
Zoos and wildlife parks often contain numbers of rare birds and animals that are unobtainable to collectors and are, therefore, worth a lot of money to criminals."
He added: "The most important thing is staff vigilance. These individuals stand out like a sore thumb and if we do get them in, keepers and staff will notify us. We take descriptions and will do a check of the car park.
"On occasions we have found vehicles that are parked in quiet corners and when you look through the windows there are nets and cages and wire cutters.
"We notify the police and take the vehicle's details. We then contact The Federation of Zoos, which has a security adviser who will then notify other zoos about the individuals through cross referencing details and descriptions. We also have good relations with the police force."