The Woodland Park Zoo is temporarily closing as a coronavirus precaution

Mar 12 2020, 12:11 am

With all events in the city on hold until at least March 31 and Seattle public schools closing for the next two weeks, it makes sense for the Woodland Park Zoo to follow suit.

This afternoon, Governor Jay Inslee officially imposed a restriction on large gatherings in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties, the latest in a series of distancing measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and to avoid a total shutdown as seen in Italy and China.

Following the lead and direction of state health and government officials, Woodland Park Zoo is temporarily closing to the public until March 31, effective Thursday, March 12, 2020.

“Critical operations staff, including animal care teams and other selected employees, will continue working at the zoo to provide vital care to the zoo’s animals and infrastructure. All other employees will work from home if they are able or receive paid leave or if their job cannot be conducted remotely,” said the Zoo in a statement.

The Zoo has already been planning ahead for the animals in its care, keeping a surplus of essential food and medical supplies on hand. Woodland Park Zookeepers will continue to monitor the supply chain.

Alyssa TherrienAlyssa Therrien

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