Exotic Zoo makes last-ditch plea
The owners of a popular Telford zoo who were looking forward to moving into a new home when the pandemic hit have now launched a public fundraiser in a bid to stay to afloat.
Telford's Exotic Zoo, which had to vacate its Priorslee site for logistical reasons, had last year reached a deal with Telford & Wrekin Council to set up a brand new site in the town park.
The original site, which housed animals including meerkats, exotic birds, tarantulas and pythons, had been closed for about three months when the coronavirus crisis hit and the moving plans were put on hold.
Director Scott Adams said that the zoo leadership had been loath to ask the public for help as some other zoos have, but a year on, the ongoing costs of running the zoo and looking after the animals are seriously straining their finances and they have few options left.
"We really did our best not to have to ask for money," he said.
"We did lots of free educational videos we put on Facebook, and then we tried to do some Zoom sessions.
"We tried anything we could but the income has been next to nothing for 15 months now.
"Running costs stay the same whether we're open or not. Every single loan we could take out, we have taken out – we're going to be in lots of debt."
Support
The fundraiser was set up on Tuesday and has already raised more than £4,000 – a target of £10,000 has been set but Mr Adams admitted that more will be needed.
"Although we didn't want to ask, I did believe we would get a good response because we have a really good community that like to come and see us.
"As always it's really touching to see how people are willing to help.
"Massive thank you to everyone that has donated. We understand there's a lot of people out there that won't be able to help out but their support and kind wishes are great. That helps just as much sometimes."
It is hoped that the Exotic Zoo will reopen in central Telford this summer.
See the fundraiser at gofundme.com/f/help-save-our-community-zoo.
