Russian missiles attacking Ukraine’s second-largest city Kharkiv have no mercy – even for the animals in the zoo as zookeepers try their best to comfort the animals unable to be evacuated to Poland. Animals have been terrified by the sounds of the explosions, and even though the zoo has been closed to visitors, about 50 loyal workers remain to help care for the animals undergoing “horrible stress.”
According to EuroNews, the zoo is home to 4,000 animals including elephants, camels and Ukraine’s only gorilla. The opportunity to evacuate the animals has passed because it is impossible to provide them with appropriate veterinary service and transportation. At this time, there is enough food and supplies for the animals for the next ten days.
The elephants and other vulnerable species are being given sedatives to keep them calm. Some of the animals have been relocated to indoor and underground enclosures to keep them safe and calm. Zookeepers have become integral partners keeping the animals’ stress levels down as much as possible.
Combat near the Kyiv Zoo:
Some neighboring Ukrainian zoos have been able to evacuate their animals to other countries. Save Wild Bear Sanctuary transported their animals to Poland and are now staying at the Poznan’s Zoo for the duration of the attack. Rescuers say it was a “miracle” the convoy of five bears made it through the occupation line and arrived safely in Poland.
The Kyiv Zoo has been assuring people that the animals are safe for now, and it is hoped they can be safely transported out of the city. After these animals have been evacuated, volunteers and rescuers will be helping the other zoo animals in the country.
No one has been left unscathed by the cruelty of the unprovoked Russian invasion.
(Photos via screenshots UAnimals)
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