An animal sanctuary will reopen to visitors after a temporary closure linked to bird flu outbreak.
Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Eynsford closed to the public in November 2025 as a preventative measure after cases of the disease were confirmed elsewhere in the county.
Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Eynsford. Picture: Eagle Heights
The precautionary decision was taken on veterinary advice to protect the birds and animals at the centre which will now reopen on Saturday (January 10).
Some bird-related attractions will still be temporarily unavailable due to government rules, but in recognition of this, all entry tickets will be offered at 50% off.
The decision follows confirmation there have been no recent local cases or outbreaks, and that recent testing of a deceased wild bird found on site returned a negative result for avian influenza.
Director Samantha Leonard said reopening has brought a strong sense of relief and renewed energy to the centre.
“It’s a huge relief and, honestly, it feels like a celebration,” she said.
Eagle Heights Director Samantha Leonard
“Eagle Heights was never designed to be quiet or empty, and being able to welcome people back onto the site again brings the place back to life.
“Reopening during our 30th anniversary year makes it even more meaningful.”
During the closure, essential staff remained on site to care for the animals while guidance from vets and the Animal and Plant Health Agency was followed.
Ms Leonard said the period had been demanding for the non profit centre, which depends on visitors for its income, but highlighted the role played by public support.
“It was an incredibly challenging and frustrating time,” she said.
“As a non profit that relies heavily on visitors, being closed had a real financial impact, but the hardest part was seeing the centre so quiet.
“The support we received from the public during that time genuinely kept us going.”
Eagle Heights Wildlife Foundation in Eynsford will reopen – but some attractions are still on hold Picture: Eagle Heights
She also shared a message for visitors returning to the site.
“Thank you for sticking with us,” she said. “Your support through vouchers, adoptions, donations and kind messages has meant everything.
“We can’t wait to welcome people back and share Eagle Heights with them again.”
Eagle Heights is one of the UK’s largest bird of prey centres, caring for more than 50 species.
The site is also home to rescued animals including meerkats, alpacas, huskies and pigs, with a focus on education, conservation and connecting people with nature.