Mob of meerkats including pregnant mum tragically die after tunnel collapses at UK wildlife park

A MOB of meerkats in a Leicestershire wildlife park have died after a tunnel collapsed on them during a sudden period of heavy rainfall. The tragic animals, including a pregnant mother, died at Tropical Birdland, in Lindridge Lane, Desford – with only one meerkat surviving the catastrophe. Tropical Birdland, in Lindridge Lane, Desford announced the sad news today Credit: Google Street View All the meerkats passed away – except for one Credit: BPM The mammals had dug a tunnel for a new litter during the hot weather. But sadly, heavy downpours meant the tunnel caved in, trapping them inside. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! The park announced today that all the meerkats died in the awful incident, including a pregnant mum called Big Mama, with staff said to be “heartbroken”. However, they managed to save one lucky meerkat from the terrible ordeal. Staff are spending as much time as possible with the sole meerkat to provide comfort during this traumatic time. Tropical Birdland previously offered a Meerkat Experience where visitors could feed the meerkats who were hand-reared. The experience was particularly popular among young people. In a post on social media, the site said: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the news of the passing of our beloved meerkats. Most read in The Sun “Most of last week, our matriarch ‘Big Mama’ had her mob digging out and preparing a fresh chamber underground, ready for the arrival of her next litter of pups. “Big Mama was an experienced mother, having several litters over the years, and her mob were very well practised in digging tunnels and chambers. “After an unusually long heatwave, the ground was ideal for digging. “In an unexpected and catastrophic turn of events, the sudden heavy rainfall after such a long, hot, dry spell compromised the structure of the tunnels, causing them to collapse. “Staff were able to locate where the meerkats were underground and were able to rescue one member of the mob, but were heartbroken to find the rest of the group had passed away. “The team is regularly spending time with the surviving member of the group to comfort and monitor them closely. “This has been an incredibly distressing and heartbreaking time for all the team. “We thank you all for your continued support during this difficult and upsetting time.” More to follow… For the latest news on this story keep checking back at The Sun Online Thesun.co.uk is your go-to destination for the best celebrity news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/thesun and follow us on TikTok @TheSun.