Bridgeport, CT – – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo (CBZ), the state’s only accredited zoo and a leader in wildlife conservation, is thrilled to announce a grant of $40,000 from the Avangrid Foundation’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Program. This funding will be used to acquire vital veterinary equipment that will enhance the Zoo’s ability to provide exceptional medical care for its animals, support wildlife rehabilitation, and contribute to global conservation efforts.
“This grant represents a significant investment in the future of wildlife care and conservation,” said Jim Wharton, CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. “We are grateful to the Avangrid Foundation for their commitment to preserving biodiversity and promoting animal welfare.”
The Zoo’s veterinary team plays a critical role in caring for animals from one hundred species, including several that are part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) and the Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) program. These programs are vital for the conservation of endangered species such as the Amur leopard, red wolf, and California condor.
“The Avangrid Foundation is happy to support Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in providing high-level care while supporting rehabilitation and conservation efforts,” said Pablo Colón, executive director of the Avangrid Foundation and Avangrid’s director of corporate citizenship. “Located a short distance from Avangrid’s Connecticut headquarters, we are pleased help local organizations accomplish their goals. Together we can be a positive force for change.”
The funding comes at a pivotal time for CBZ, which recently renewed its AZA accreditation and celebrates several conservation milestones, including the birth of a giant anteater and contributions to endangered species recovery efforts. By upgrading its veterinary resources, the Zoo is taking proactive steps to remain a leader in animal care and conservation.
This grant aligns with the Avangrid Foundation’s mission to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable ecosystems. The Zoo continues to lead in conservation and education efforts throughout Connecticut. With its unique role as the state’s only zoo, the Zoo is a hub for promoting environmental awareness and building a connection between people and wildlife. Together, the Zoo and the Avangrid Foundation are fostering a brighter future for wildlife and the environment.
Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo invites the public to visit and witness the transformative work to protect and preserve wildlife. To learn more about the Zoo’s programs, mission, and visiting hours, please visit beardsleyzoo.org.
About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating 102 years, features 350 animals representing primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Andean bear, maned wolves, Mexican gray wolves, and red wolves. Other highlights include our Spider Monkey Habitat, and a new prairie dog exhibit. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and participant in its Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs, the non-profit Zoo is committed to the preservation of endangered animals and wild habitats. Tickets can be purchased on the Zoo’s website at https://www.beardsleyzoo.org/.
About Avangrid Foundation: The Avangrid Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization that funds philanthropic investments that primarily impact communities where Avangrid, Inc. and its subsidiaries operate. Since 2001, the Avangrid Foundation and its predecessors have invested more than $42.4 million in partnerships that focus on building sustainable, vital, and healthy communities; preserving cultural and artistic heritage; advancing education; and improving people’s lives. The Avangrid Foundation is committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in the United States. For more information, please visit https://www.avangrid.com/avangrid-foundation.