Little Rock Zoo sustains damage from severe weather

Little Rock, Arkansas – On Wednesday afternoon, strong winds ripped through The Little Rock Zoo causing major damage.

According to Zoo director, Susan Altrui, they are “going to need some money to repair some things.”

One tree landed and crushed a bathroom and fence along with another tree that crushed a fence. More damage consists of a hole in the top of the reptile building snapped railings barricades, and the shade cloth at the amphitheater and elephant exhibit torn. Also, a fence that was attached to the ground with metal bolts was pulled from the concrete and bent.

“It seems like the more we walk around we see even more damage,” said Altrui.

The zoo plan to be open on Friday.

According to Altrui, she has been in contact with the city and Mayor Frank Scott Jr. expressing the need for funds to make repairs.

“We know we can count on our board and our Mayor for that kind of support.”

According to Altrui, when the storm came through, damages were the least of her worries. She was focused on lives, she said.

Fortunately, there were no injuries to any of the animals or staff members.