AN animal centre says it has no plans to scrap its “interactive” animal areas after a shocking incident in which a cockerel was chased and harassed until it died.

Staff at Tropical Wings, in South Woodham Ferrers, say they were devastated by the death of cockerel Jack, who died after running into a tree.

According witnesses, the bird was trying to escape a group of children who had been tormenting him, while adults looked on and laughed.

The RSPCA and police have since contacted the zoo about the incident, although it is being treated as an isolated incident.

Manager Jay Wood said: “We would like to thank everyone all for their support over the past few days. It has been greatly appreciated.

“Both the RSPCA and the police have contacted us and we are all now confident this incident was notamalicious act, nor do we feel it was premeditated.

“It was an isolated incident in our 15-year history and although it has been a difficult time for our dedicated team, we are determined not to alter our ethos.

“We believe we can educate children and adults alike about the natural world through close interaction with animals.

“We thank customers for their continued support and believe it is now time to move on and dedicate our resources to continuing to provide high standards of welfare to all the animals in our collection."