While there have been no known cases of exposure to COVID-19 at the Santa Barbara Zoo, with the health of staff, volunteers, guests, community and animals as its top priority, the Santa Barbara Zoo will close temporarily to the public, effective March 17.
Only essential Zoo employees will continue to report to work, in order to care for the animals and facility. At this time, there is no indication that this virus is of immediate concern to any of the animals. The Zoo’s animal health experts on staff are in communication with public health officials, along with local and national veterinary networks, to stay up-to-date on animals in human care and any potential risks.
The Zoo is also canceling all events (public and private) through May 10 according to the issues ordered by the state of California. If you have purchased general admission tickets, your tickets are valid for one year from the date of purchase, and you are welcome to use them any time within that year. Check the Zoo’s website for full details about programs and events that have changed.
The Zoo will continue to follow the updates and guidance of the Center for Disease Control, California Department of Public Health, and Santa Barbara County Public Health Department and will re-evaluate next steps following their guidance and directives.
While the Zoo will be temporarily closed, the community is encouraged to visit their website sbzoo.org as well as their social media channels (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) as a way to enjoy the Zoo from the comfort of home. The Zoo will continue to communicate any changes via their website, emails, and social media channels as new information becomes available. The Zoo looks forward to welcoming the public back once it’s safe, and appreciates the community’s ongoing support. To consider making a donation to the Santa Barbara Zoo please click here.
