Edinburgh Zoo’s veterinary achievements and Poly the northern rockhopper penguin
Tabled 21 January 2026 by Christine Jardine
That this House congratulates Edinburgh Zoo on the remarkable recovery of Poly, a northern rockhopper penguin, following her second surgery to treat a serious infection in her eye socket; notes that Poly has now returned to her colony at Penguins Rock and continues to be monitored by expert veterinary staff; acknowledges the collaborative work between RZSS vets and ophthalmology specialists at the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in ensuring the best possible care for an endangered species; recognises the dedication and commitment of animal care and veterinary teams in providing intensive postoperative support, including the innovative use of adapted recovery equipment; further recognises that every addition to an endangered species’ population is a meaningful contribution to conservation efforts; and calls on the Government to continue supporting the vital work of UK zoos and conservation charities in animal welfare, species preservation, public education, and scientific research.