Four zookeepers have become the newest neighbours of the animals in one UK zoo during the coronavirus outbreak.
The employees Izzy Wheatley, Sarah-Jane Jelbert, Emily Foden, and Layla Richardson decided to move into their workplace- the Paradise Park in Cornwall, UK, for at least 90 days.
They did this to be able to take ongoing care for the animals that live there during the lockdowns because of the virus.
The park wrote on their official Facebook page that these zookeepers will be leaving their families, some of whom are following 12-week self-isolation periods.
They also explained that the workers will be supported by other keepers on the daily and will adhere to all guidelines.
Zookeepers Move into Wildlife Park during Coronavirus Pandemic
This wildlife park is the home to 1200 birds and mammals, including penguins, flamingos, and parrots.
Even though this is certainly a fun experience for the workers, the park isn’t sure if they’ll be ready to reopen for the public anytime soon.
For a lot of businesses worldwide, the virus has caused numerous worries when it comes to paying their bills.
Alison Hales who’s the director of this wildlife park said that the unknown is very worrisome and for these parks, spring is usually a hopeful time when the number of visitors increases and they can get some relief.
However, now, it seems as if the rug has been pulled, but she’s hopeful they’ll do well.
Donations Will Be much Appreciated, Claims the ZOO
They’re now relying on the birds to show them the way and hope to come out the other end.
Hales and her colleague Michelle Turton opened up a GoFundMe page to collect $17,500 to help the zoo during its temporary closure.
The park decided to make this move to ensure that their animals get the much-needed premium care and help guarantee the health and safety of their workers.
The four volunteers are dedicated animal lovers; however, some of them also have vulnerable members at their homes.
When they heard the self-isolation advice as a means to fight off the virus, they had to make a decision which wasn’t easy-stay away from work and isolate with their families.
This is when they suggested living in the park and thus, they won’t put at risk the health of their loved ones.
Taking into account that there are more than thousand animals living in this park, looking after them is a time-consuming and complex task, even without a coronavirus.
The employees are doing their best to keep up with the animals routines like feeding, play time, etc.
They’re also doing their training of hawks, eagles, and vultures that participate in the free-flying display happening during the summer.
Although the zoo is physically closed for visitors, you can still check out on the animals on the park’s live webcams.
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