Marwell Wildlife launches fundraising campaign to cover animal expenses while it is closed

Marwell, which is between Bishop's Waltham and Winchester, is closed to guests however it is business as usual for a team of zookeepers, vets and scientists.

They are working to ensure the zoo’s animals, many of which are endangered species and part of global breeding programmes, receive the same level of care and attention.

Conservation charity Marwell Wildlife has launched a fundraising campaign to help cover daily animal expenses such as feed, bedding and heating while the zoo is unable to receive income from visitors.

The 140-acre wildlife park is home to hundreds of animals, from endangered Amur tigers, snow leopards and white rhinos to giraffes, gibbons and penguins.

Launching the campaign, which has already received more than £2,000 in donations, Marwell Wildlife chief executive James Cretney said: ‘While Marwell Zoo is closed to our guests, we want to reassure you that we are keeping the care and welfare of our animals as our highest priority.

‘Our talented teams including keepers, vets, scientists, maintenance workers and landscapers are working tirelessly to ensure there is no interruption to the dedicated and compassionate care each and every animal receives, and we are in awe of their energy during this unsettling time.

‘Marwell relies on day ticket, membership, retail and catering sales; things we are no longer receiving; in order to operate. We are reducing non-essential expenses, but we simply cannot do the same for the daily care all our animals need.’

Donations are being collected through Just Giving, as this means the charity can take Gift Aid from taxpayers who donate.

James added: ‘We are so grateful for all the kind wishes and offers of support and we feel incredibly lucky to be part of your community for nearly 50 years. You can help us through these difficult times.

‘Your generosity will ensure we can go the extra mile caring for the animals so that future generations can experience the joy of coming to the zoo, and knowing what we can do for conservation here in the UK and the world.’

To donate, visit justgiving.com/campaign/supportMarwell.

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