Eight penguins were killed by a fox at Chessington World of Adventures after it broke into their enclosure.

Five were adults and three were infants, and a ninth penguin was injured during the attack.

Lisa Britton, assistant zoo manager at Chessington World of Adventures, said: "It is with great sadness that we have to announce the death of eight of our Humboldt penguins, which it is apparent were killed by an urban fox that infiltrated their home at Penguin Bay overnight at the end of June.

"Another penguin was injured, but received veterinary care and has made a full recovery."

The remaining 20 penguins were moved to a secure location.

Ms Britton added: "We are investigating why this happened, as Penguin Bay, only built in 2015, had special measures put in place specifically to deter foxes and therefore we are shocked and saddened at this news.

"The eight Humboldt penguins, five adults and three infants, were part of a group of 28 here at the resort, which we know are extremely popular with our guests, and much loved by all of us here, especially our dedicated zoo team.

"Our remaining penguins have been moved to a secure area while we take additional measures to secure Penguin Bay, which we hope to reopen as soon as possible.

"The health, safety and welfare of our animals is the primary concern to us here at Chessington World of Adventures Resort. We are a member of EAZA (European Association of Zoos and Aquariums), and BIAZA (British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums), both of which have strict codes of practice and ethics covering animal management, conservation, education research and operations.”