​San Diego Zoo, Safari Park Extend Coronavirus Closure Dates

SAN DIEGO, CA — The closures of the San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park were extended indefinitely Monday due to the coronavirus pandemic. All employees, however, will be paid through at least April 19, park officials announced.

"San Diego Zoo Global takes its role as a leader for the larger San Diego community seriously. We understand the trust our audiences have placed in us over the past 103 years," park officials said in a prepared statement. "To serve our community responsibly, we have put the interests of our employees and the wildlife in our care at the forefront of our approach at this unprecedented time in our history."

The animals and parks will continue to be maintained and cared for, ensuring that both parks will be ready to open when the COVID-19 crisis has passed, according to the statement.

"We continue to have essential and dedicated staff on grounds at both parks, ensuring that the remarkable wildlife in our care continue to thrive. The urgent nature of our work to save species is unchanged, even in the face of this pandemic," park officials said.

"We keep at the forefront of our thoughts the well-being of these dedicated employees and the many volunteers who make our parks such special places to visit."

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San Diego Zoo Global launched an online education program last week to keep parents, teachers and zoo fans connected to their favorite animals during the coronavirus crisis. The #WereHereTogether program offers free online content, entertainment and educational tools.

Visit SanDiegoZoo.org for more information.

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