SAN ANTONIO – Our local nonprofits in San Antonio need help from the community now more than ever due to COVID-19 affecting its daily operations.
This week for Wishlist Wednesday, KSAT Community will be highlighting the San Antonio Zoo and the opportunity to Adopt-A-Keeper.
How has COVID-19 impacted the SA Zoo?
Unlike most zoos in the country, San Antonio Zoo relies 100% on ticket sales, guest spending, grants and donations to operate.
“Since closing the zoo on March 14, we have not had visitors and lost virtually all of our income,” said a zoo official. “Our team has been innovative during this time. We launched an emergency fund campaign, sold Easter baskets, transitioned our behind-the-scenes tours into virtual encounters, and started a Drive Thru Zoo experience."
Adopt-A-Keeper program:
While San Antonio Zoo had to close its doors in early March to the public, its Animal Care Team has continued to ensure the animals receive the best care.
By adopting a keeper, like Rachel, Mammals Director for San Antonio Zoo, your contribution helps provide resources towards the Zoo Crew to continue their world-class animal care in San Antonio. Click here if you wish to Adopt-A-Keeper.
Other options to support the San Antonio Zoo include:
- Purchase tickets for the Drive-Thru Zoo experience.
- Make a donation online to the emergency fund.
- Purchase annual passes.
- Purchase Virtual Tours.
- Create a fundraiser on Facebook.
When will the zoo be opening back up?
San Antonio Zoo is planning on re-opening its gate to foot traffic in the coming weeks, beginning initially with Annual Pass holders and Monthly Membership holders. On Monday, Governor Abbott included zoos in Phase 2 of re-opening Texas allowing them to re-open beginning May 29.
“San Antonio Zoo has been working diligently on a plan to create safe operations and experiences for the animals, guests, and staff,” said zoo officials. “The State of Texas has provided protocols for further guidance. We are working with the City of San Antonio to finalize details and ensure that we are all on the same page in regards to our operations.”
Kiddie Park, The Zoo Eagle Train in Brackenridge Park, Riverbank, and the carousel inside the zoo will remain closed until further notice.
Starbucks will continue to operate in Brackenridge Park.
“As a “thank you” to its Annual Pass holders who have been so supportive and stayed loyal to the zoo since before the zoo’s closing on March 14th, the zoo will be extending Annual Passes purchased between March 2019 through March 2020 by three months," said zoo officials.
For more information, visit sazoo.org.