Dutch Zookeeper Dies After Leopard Attack

An experienced zookeeper with four decades of service has died after being mauled by two Persian leopards at the Beekse Bergen safari park in the southern Netherlands. The woman, who began her career at the park at age 17, was attacked on Saturday while caring for the animals in an indoor enclosure.

She sustained severe injuries to her head and neck. Despite undergoing surgery, she passed away on Tuesday. The park confirmed her death, stating that her passing has deeply affected everyone at the facility. "At this moment, our primary focus is on supporting her family and her colleagues," the park said in a statement.

The incident occurred when the two leopards, normally housed separately from staff, were moved indoors due to inclement weather. The exact circumstances of the attack are unclear as there are no CCTV cameras within the indoor facility. However, reports indicate the zookeeper managed to alert colleagues via walkie-talkie following the mauling.

An independent investigation into the incident has been announced. Park officials confirmed that the leopards were behaving naturally and would not be euthanized, emphasizing that "they are, and remain, predators."

Beekse Bergen plans to establish a memorial location where guests and staff can offer condolences.