Koala Retreat is Supporting ‘Emergency Appeal for Ukrainian Zoos’ of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) in the Ukraine.

“The situation for Ukrainian zoos remains mixed. In the West (including the Kyiv area), the withdrawal of defeated Russian forces has reduced direct threats since our last update but indiscriminate bombing and artillery attacks continue, still threatening the staff and animals of zoos. The animals are receiving food and care, and the zoos are not asking for animals to be relocated. In the East of Ukraine, renewed offensives still threaten the zoos in or near Kharkiv. It is increasingly difficult for us to remain in contact with Kharkiv Zoo, and Feldman Ecopark has been severely damaged. The animals remaining on site are fed daily and the zoo has plans to evacuate them when it becomes possible. With our partners, we will continue to provide whatever support we can until the danger has passed.

“We are also saddened by the discovery of the bodies of two zookeepers from Feldman Ecopark, apparently murdered by Russian occupation forces. The deaths of keepers, who chose to remain at the zoo site to care for animals despite the dangers to their safety and had no connection to the war, are inexcusable. These war crimes bring further shame on Russia and we call for the perpetrators to be brought to justice in Ukraine at the earliest possible opportunity.”

(Extract from EAZA update dated 3 June 2022 – emphasis added)

EAZA’s incredible work highlights the terrible plight of zookeepers who are working in a war zone. Humans have lost their lives, simply for looking after their animals.

As soon as Koala Retreat learnt of this campaign, we had no hesitation donating to this worthy cause.

Let’s not forget our Ukranian colleagues and the hostile environment they are working in, daily.

We urge Australian zoos and others to make an urgent donation.

To find out more and to donate, please go to - https://www.eaza.net/emergency-appeal-for-ukrainian-zoos