A British zoo has launched an appeal to raise funds after some animal enclosures were damaged during a storm. Twycross Zoo in Leicestershire said two of its aviaries collapsed following “extreme winds and snowfall” from Storm Goretti earlier this month.

The park said money donated will support its animal welfare team while new homes for a number of their birds are designed and built. Lynsey Bugg, senior curator at Twycross Zoo, said: “While insurance will help us rebuild, there are vital care costs during this period that aren’t fully covered. We’re asking for support to help us look after the birds while we rebuild their new homes.”

The collapsed aviaries affected several bird species including finches, cranes, speckled pigeons and hamerkop. 

“Our absolute priority has been the welfare of the birds,” Ms Bugg said. 

“Our teams acted quickly to make sure they were safe, warm and well cared for following the storm.”

She added: “We wanted to be responsible and transparent before asking for help. Once we had clarity, we felt it was right to invite our community to support us in caring for the birds during this recovery period.”

There was widespread snow across the Midlands following Storm Goretti on January 8.

Thousands of homes across the country were left without power because of the multi-hazard storm.

Twycross Zoo said donations will go directly towards supporting the birds while rebuilding work goes on.

The zoo, west of Leicester, is home to more than 500 animals from almost 150 species.

Several rare species are at the park, including Sumatran tiger, Amur leopard and eastern black rhino.