BRIDGEPORT, Conn. – Five animal candidates are vying for the much sought-after title of Mayor of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. This important election will decide the Zoo’s first Mayor, the highest-ranking animal official who will showcase the important role of animal ambassadors. The five candidates who have made it past the primary rounds to the general election are:
- Peaches the Nigerian dwarf goat. Peaches is the mother of two sets of triplets and a set of twins. She has raised all the kids on her own, demonstrating her can-do spirit. She’s quiet and friendly unless she needs to assert herself and is rarely in a baaaaad mood.
- Wiggles the 18-year-old chinchilla. As a long-time animal ambassador and a veteran of ZooMobile visits to senior centers as well as starring roles at children’s birthday parties, Wiggles has the experience and know-how to get the job done. Plus this crepuscular rodent has very cute ears.
- Matilda the red-footed tortoise. Matilda is one of the quietest candidates, signaling her position on issues with head movements. Her campaign materials state that while she may not have lightning speed, she believes that slow and steady wins the race.
- Jolene the Whistling duck. Jolene is a born politician. Sociable, boisterous and noisy, she has supported the rights of ducks who prefer to walk on land as well as those who prefer to perch in trees. She considers all ducks equal under the law.
- E.O. the Giant anteater. E.O., named for famed American biologist E.O. Wilson, shares Wilson’s love of science. A devoted father of two with his partner Pana, E.O. champions ambitious science-based agendas when not enjoying an insect slurry.
This highly contested race will be decided by online votes. The general public can vote for the candidate of their choice by making a one-dollar donation for each vote at https://CBZMayor.givesmart.com. Voting begins on Wednesday, October 21. Polls close at four p.m. on Tuesday, November 3.
“Similar to other elections taking place around the country, the race for Mayor of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is highly contested as each candidate attempts to win the support of voters,” said Zoo Director Gregg Dancho. “Unlike other elections, we encourage people to vote early, vote often, and stuff the ballot box.”
The winning Mayor will hold a 12-month term. All donations to the ballot box will be used to support the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, research and fun.
About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo:
Let your curiosity run wild! Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating its 98th year, features 300 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 grey wolves and red wolves. Other highlights include our new 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 approaching its 100th year at a time when the mission of helping fragile wildlife populations and eco-systems is more important than ever.
The Zoo reopened on June 1. Tickets must be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org. Face masks are required for everyone over the age of two, with the exception of those with medical conditions that preclude wearing them.