Forest Park Zoo receives $41,000 to support winter animal care

SPRINGFIELD — The animals and staff at the Zoo in Forest Park just got a boost for the new year, thanks to public donors and a foundation.

Throughout December, the zoo raised $21,092 from 76 donors, exceeding a campaign goal of $20,000. That value was matched by the Anthony M. and Lea Scibelli Charitable Foundation, resulting in $41,092 to help support winter animal care at the zoo.

"This time of year, we are overwhelmed and humbled by the number of people who step up and support The Zoo," Sarah Tsitso, executive director of The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center, said in a statement.

"Our animals, most of which are vulnerable and unable to survive on their own in the wild, rely on the generosity of their friends in the community to stay safe, happy and healthy," Tsitso said.

Though the Zoo in Forest Park is closed to the public from November to March, it remains fully operational all year long.

"Because we are a seasonal experience for guests, people often assume we operate seasonally as a zoo, as well" said Gabry Tyson, assistant executive director, in a statement. "In reality, the work here never stops. For the animals, this is their home, and they remain in their home regardless of the season."

The $41,092 in donations will go to daily animal care, including food, heat, bedding, habitat maintenance and medical needs.

The zoo — which runs educational zoo camps for students on break in February and April — will open to the public in late March, depending on the weather.

For more information on the zoo and its operations, visit forestparkzoo.org .

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