Zoo Update: Overcoming the Flood and a New Exhibit
Posted at: 10/31/2012 12:00 AM
| Updated at: 11/20/2012 3:52 PM
By: Travis Dill
June's flood of the century killed several barnyard animals and allowed others to escape their enclosures at the Lake Superior Zoo, but even those high waters couldn't wash away the hopes of zoo staff and community volunteers.
“The great part about the community here is even the day after the flood all the support that we received and all the volunteers. And even throughout this whole time everyone is still very interested and rooting for the zoo,” Director of Zoo Operations Peter Pruett said.
Leaders gave an update about the future of the zoo at a West Duluth Business Club meeting on Wednesday.
CEO Sam Maida said that most flood clean up is done, but a few projects are on hold until the city and insurers are ready to move forward.
“Polar Shores is still an enigma sitting there waiting for something glorious to happen to it,” Maida said.
Berlin the polar bear is still recuperating at the Como Zoo, but officials said she is doing well.
Since most of the damage has been repaired, zoo officials are looking for a new exhibit.
Everyone thinks of lions, tigers and bears when the zoo is mentioned, but the Director of Zoo Operations has something smaller in mind.
“We're looking at a naked mole rat exhibit, which will be in the main building. And I would recommend everyone to do a little Google search on those guys because they're unique and fun,” Pruett said.
He said the small animal is interesting because they are the only mammal that lives in colonies like bees and other insects.
Zoo officials also mentioned next month's Give to the Max event. Community donations can be doubled during the Nov. 15 event. Check lszoo.org for more details.
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