Meow-gical Masquerade: Carnival Themed Fundraiser Coming Up for New Cat Habitat at Local Zoo

(KNSI) — A fundraiser for a local zoo will help build some endangered cats get a new castle.

The proceeds from the third annual For the Love of Rhinos Gala will go to build Hemker Park & Zoo new enclosures for their three Pallas Cats and an Amur Leopard. The animals came to the zoo last winter from a California facility that was forced to close.

Guardians of Conservation Vice President Jackie Poepping says the central Asian animals feel at home in Minnesota weather. “They enjoy the cold as much as they like the warm in the summer months. So our environment, our climate here in Minnesota is very close to what they would be in the wild.”

She explained that the cats are part of a breeding program to ensure they will be around for generations. Poepping is thankful they landed the fury critters and looks forward to being able to help educate the public about these creatures on the brink of extinction. “There’s only a few zoological facilities that even have them here in the United States. So, it is truly an honor to come and help them.”

An estimated 58,000 Pallas cats remain in the wild, and only around 320 Amur Leopards are left, with 220 in captivity.

The Carnival themed event is at Coyote Moon Grille on Saturday, February 10th, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Guests will be treated to entertainment, food, drinks, a silent auction, and an interactive Family Feud game show. In honor of the giant celebration in Rio de Janeiro, there will be samba dancers, bright colors, and even guest appearances by zoo animals.

To get tickets, click here.

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