"It is important to stress that this is a trial period."

Dublin Zoo will be reopening its doors today for the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic began. The zoo will welcome customers again from today (June 2), operating in a reduced capacity and under new strict health and safety protocols. No more than 500 visitors will be permitted to enter the park at one time, less than 10 percent of the zoo's usual capacity at this time of year. Visitors will travel through the zoo by following a one-way walking route. Hand sanitiser stations will be available and there will be visible signage reinforcing physical distancing, hand-hygiene, and coughing and sneezing etiquette. A new cleaning regime has also been implemented, while all Dublin Zoo staff have been trained in the safe use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). All tickets for the zoo must be booked online in advance, as purchasing tickets at the gate will not be permitted. The zoo will operate two sessions per day, one in the morning from 9.30 -13.00 and one in the afternoon from 14.00-17.30. The majority of animals will be available to see, however the wolves, hippo, Waldrapp ibis, Amur tigers and the red pandas are not included in the new walking route due to their enclosed habitats. Director of Dublin Zoo, Leo Oosterweghel, says that although he is delighted to be able to welcome visitors back to the zoo, this is still a "careful, phased reopening." "t is important to stress that this is a trial period for Dublin Zoo and patience and understanding will be required from visitors as we navigate our new pre-booking system, two daily opening sessions and one-way walking route," he says.  "We have worked hard to ensure Dublin Zoo can once again reopen to the public, but health and safety come first, and we ask all visitors to bear that in mind when coming to see us."  You can book yourself a ticket to go to the zoo here.