BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – Rhubarb the two-toed sloth will officially take on the duties and responsibilities of Mayor of the Zoo on Thursday, December 8 at 9:30am in the Zoo’s Rainforest Building. The Swearing-In Ceremony will be conducted by Zoo Director Gregg Dancho and witnessed by Zoo staff and rainforest friends. After taking the official oath of office, Rhubarb will have the opportunity to make remarks or to go back to sleep.
The Farmyard Party earlier issued a statement on behalf of the current mayor, Harry the Guinea Hog, promising allegiance to Rhubarb and a smooth transfer of power. As the second-place winner, Goncalo the Maned Wolf will serve as runner up if Rhubarb is unable to fulfill his duties through the duration of his term. Rhubarb is the first sloth to hold the Zoo’s highest office.
The ceremony will be carried live on the Zoo’s Facebook and Instagram accounts.
The highly contested race was decided by online votes, with the public voting for the candidate of their choice by making a one-dollar donation for each vote.
“Rhubarb will not be in a hurry to make changes, but he promises not to leave his constituents hanging,” said Zoo Director Gregg Dancho. “By electing an animal as mayor of the Zoo, we hope to recognize the unique contributions of our animal family and highlight the importance of biodiversity to the planet.”
Mayor Rhubarb will hold a 12-month term.
About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo:
Let your curiosity run wild! Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating its 100th year, features 350 animals representing primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Amur tiger and leopards, maned wolves, and Mexican gray wolves and red wolf. Other highlights include our Spider Monkey Habitat, the prairie dog exhibit, and the Pampas Plain with giant anteaters and Chacoan peccaries. Guests can grab a bite from the Peacock Café and eat in the Picnic Grove. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is a non-profit organization celebrating its Centennial year when the mission of helping fragile wildlife populations and ecosystems is more important than ever. Tickets must be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org.