A British zoo has introduced a new visitor policy that bans wearing animal print clothing. The rule was announced by Chessington World of Adventures in Surrey, and it is intended to reduce confusion between guests and animals during daily park life. Officials say the bold patterns woven into many outfits can blur the outlines of people in the eyes of some animals, causing moments where a guest might be mistaken for another creature or where an animal tries to communicate in ways that can be surprising or unsettling. In other cases, certain animals may become wary or frightened because they cannot easily distinguish the person from a familiar animal or from the background of the enclosure. The measure shows the park’s emphasis on animal welfare and the safety of everyone on site, with a simple aim: keep interactions calm, predictable, and enjoyable for both animals and visitors. The policy applies to all guests and is part of Chessington’s broader guidelines to reduce stressors in the animal habitats while maintaining a welcoming experience for families, tourists, and local guests alike. Visitors wearing animal prints will be asked to switch to a plain garment to cover the patterns before continuing their day at the park. The prints that are specifically banned include leopard, tiger, zebra, cheetah and giraffe, though the list may be reviewed over time as staff observe animal responses and visitor feedback.
Upon arrival, anyone seen in animal print clothing is offered a plain shirt to wear over their clothes so the patterns are no longer visible. The enforcement process is designed to be straightforward and friendly, with gate staff or attendants guiding guests to the wardrobe area where the provided shirt is available without fuss. The intention is not to shame anyone; it is a practical step aimed at protecting animals during everyday interactions and reducing the chance of startling or confusing behavior in the park’s animal residents. The policy reflects a broader understanding that visual cues can influence animal attention and responses, especially in close contact situations around exhibits, feeding windows, and enrichment activities. Visitors who arrive dressed in prints might still encounter the rule at some point in their itinerary, since safety and welfare considerations take precedence, and staff will explain the rationale and help with a quick change. The rule is applied consistently across all areas of Chessington to create a cohesive experience for guests and a safer environment for the animals.
From the guests’ point of view, the change is a small adjustment that helps preserve the quality of the day. Covering prints does not limit the enjoyment of encounters with wildlife; it simply keeps interactions within comfortable boundaries and minimizes surprises for both animals and people. The policy aligns with what many accredited zoos and wildlife parks aim for: predictable, low-stress experiences that allow visitors to observe, learn, and photograph animals without causing unintended distress. Families with young children appreciate a straightforward rule that reduces confusion during busy periods and photo sessions. The park’s team continues to monitor how the measure affects behavior in different habitats, making updates as new observations come in. Guests are reminded to plan ahead for their visit, and those who plan to wear clothing featuring animal patterns might choose a different outfit in advance to avoid last‑minute adjustments. Chessington remains committed to providing a safe, enjoyable environment while respecting the needs of its animal residents and the people who come to see them.
Image courtesy of Chessington World of Adventures.