The Calgary Zoo is struggling to keep up with its many animals’ appetites during the COVID-19 pandemic, as restrictions forced the facility to close its doors a month ago, and it’s hoping the public can help.
The zoo hasn’t had any visitors through its gates since March 16, a day after the City of Calgary declared a state of local emergency, and that means a significant shortfall in cashflow to cover the $550,000/month bill to feed the animals. “Being closed is quite a struggle, the Calgary Zoo depends on its spring and summer months for the lion share of our revenue,” CEO Gregr Royer said.
The $550,000 doesn’t account for the costs of running the zoo facilities, security, administrative costs and building care. “We’re going through about