SeaWorld Conservation Fund has announced 10 emergency grants to help wildlife organisations impacted Hurricane Ian.
The not-for-profit organisation, funded by a variety of sources included SeaWorld Entertainment and from the theme parks’ merchandise and ticket sales and special event, has distributed the aid to organisations across Florida, including zoos, wildlife sanctuaries, rescue and rehabilitation centres and other non-profit groups.
Most organisations which applied for a SeaWorld emergency grant have suffered from damaged fences, major flooding, habitat destruction, wind damage and other storm-related issues.
Dr Chris Dold, president of the SeaWorld Conservation Fund, said: “SeaWorld is proud to support our fellow zoological and rescue facilities affected by Hurricane Ian.
“We are all part of an essential wildlife care ecosystem, and we are grateful to have the ability to step up and help others who share our commitment to protecting wildlife.”
Among the recipients of grant aid is the Zoological Disaster Rescue, Response and Recovery, the largest zoological response organsiation in the US. It supports zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries and other animal care groups before and after significant incidents such as a hurricane.
Julia Wagner, executive director of Zoological Disaster Rescue, Response and Recovery, said: “Hurricane Ian caused catastrophic damage to the Florida community, and significant damage to wildlife facilities across the state. We are seeing substantial impact to many facilities, and wildlife in need of support in the coming weeks and months.
“These groups need all the help they can get. The grant provided by the SeaWorld Conservation Fund to our organisation will go directly back to the wildlife care community so that we can help as many groups as possible on their long road to repairing, rebuilding and reopening.”
Naples Zoo, which was also impacted by the storm, was also one of the 10 to receive funding.
Director of animals programs Naples Zoo said: “Like many groups in the area, our habitats sustained damage from the wind and rain and this grant is incredibly helpful for our animals and our teams. It will help provide urgent habitat and exhibit repair, tree removal, fencing replacement and erosion repair important to keep our animals healthy and safe.”