Oregon Zoo closes its facilities and cancels all events

In a statement released on Thursday, the Oregon Zoo says it has decided to close most of its facilities and cancel all gatherings within its grounds until April 8.

One of the most popular attractions in Oregon, and one of the largest zoos in the world, is shutting down the majority of their operations, according to the statement.

The zoo — which saw over 1.7 million visitors in 2018 — will close all indoor areas and high touchpoints, starting immediately.

Air five and update: Following state recommendations to help slow the spread of coronavirus, some parts of the zoo are closed through April 8. Learn more and find event info ➡️ https://t.co/zeQHK8PvOD pic.twitter.com/nWCmPwb9MG

— Oregon Zoo (@OregonZoo) March 12, 2020

“Metro and the Oregon Zoo are working closely with the Oregon Health Authority and following their guidance. We are enhancing our already robust cleaning procedures. You can help by following hygiene best practices, and following the guidance of local health officials,” reads the statement on the zoo’s website.

In addition to the closure of the majority of areas, the Oregon Zoo also stated that they will be canceling all planned events, gatherings, and camps from now until April 8 “following state recommendations to help slow the spread of coronavirus.”

• See also:
  • Oregon State bans all gatherings of 250 people or more due to coronavirus
  • University of Oregon cancels in-person finals due to coronavirus

“Our animals are doing well and we continue to provide them with dedicated, professional care, day in and out,” said the statement. “We have a good stock of essential food and medical supplies for our animals, contingencies in place, and are proactively monitoring our supply chain to ensure essentials remain on hand.”

Unfortunately, this means that all those who planned or purchased tickets to the Oregon Zoo’s spring break camps, will have to find another way to entertain and educate their kids.

This news comes on the heels of a state of emergency declaration by the City of Portland, as well as a ban on all gatherings of 250 people or more by the Oregon Governor Kate Brown.