COUNCIL bosses have come under fire after a report shows previous concerns with a city-run mini zoo campaigners claim is not fit for animals.

The Evening Times told earlier this month how local resident Carmen Simio contacted the council with fears for reptiles and birds in Queen's Park Glasshouse.

A spokesman said at the time that the centre is regularly inspected by experts and "none have shared the concerns identified by this private individual."

But previous zoo inspection certificates, released under Freedom of Information legislation, show inspectors shared several concerns raised by Carmen.

A report in 2015 showed the inspector had concerns about visitors banging on the glass, which was a worry shared by Carmen.

The inspector also said the animals did not have a wide enough diet, there were not enough distractions in their cages and larger cages should be provided for reptiles.

Carmen said: "What I want Glasgow City Council to know is that by ignoring this situation they're just proving that they can't be trusted to address important issues, and that this surely is affecting their reputation and will continue to do so.

"I am still available to meet LES, the Area Manager and the Head of the council, and that if they really have nothing to hide it shouldn't be a problem to arrange said meeting.

"I am not just coming to the table with a problem, my proposed solution would be to rehome the animals through various charities who would be able to ensure that they go to homes where they would be cared for in an appropriate manner."

She added: "I believe that the council should really focus on the upkeep of the city and allocate funding to maintaining roads, collection of litter, and offering more support for the growing homeless population rather than run a small and poorly kept zoo just so they don't have to publicly admit that they have been in the wrong by agreeing to rehome the animals that they insist on keeping in unsuitable conditions."

The aviary in the Glasshouse has a zoo licence until 2021 following an assessment by a Scottish Government-approved vet.

The bird house is inspected by a vet twice a year and there is also an an annual ethics review.

Local councillor Soryia Siddique said: “Concerns have been raised regarding the living conditions of birds of the Glasshouse in Queen’s Park.

“There appears to be a lack of satisfaction in the response from the council and unanswered questions.

“The council should meet with the community and discuss the concerns raised in light of professional opinion.”

A spokesman for the council said: “Our zoo licence for Queen’s Park Glasshouse was issued in 2015 with a number of recommendations, which have now all been met.

“We continue to subject the operation of the mini-zoo at Queen’s Park to external scrutiny, including regular veterinary inspections, which help us to ensure animal welfare standards are being maintained.

“If we have any concerns about the conditions of any of the animals at the mini-zoo we immediately contact a fully accredited vet and put in place appropriate measures based on their advice.”