(KNSI) – A zoo in Stearns County is getting some brand-new homeowners and is searching for the general public’s help in offering a good home.
Hemker Zoo & Park
Hemker Zoo and Park in Freeport has actually taken in an Amur Leopard and 3 Pallas Cats. Zoo owner and director Joan Hemker informed KNSI News that having the animals assists even more their objective. “By bringing these endangered species to the zoo, it will help us with our mission of teaching all generations about the importance of caring about animals that are endangered and need help.”
She says just around 100 Amur Leopards are left in the wild and around 180 in captivity. Both types are cold-weather cats belonging to Russia and China, making them a good suitable for Minnesota’s environment. Hemker says the leopard is a big cat breed, and the others look unique. “The Pallas Cats are smaller. We always say they resemble house cats, but they tend to look like a grumpy old man. And we think kids will really enjoy them a lot.”
The uncommon cats originated from the Exotic Feline Breeding Compound (EFBC), a not-for-profit in California that was required to close its doors in February due to monetary difficulty. Hemker chose to help the EFBC by taking in the animals. The zoo had just 2 weeks to choose, and due to the fact that the animals were not consisted of in the 2023 budget plan, the zoo is requesting for contributions to help build 2 pens for the cats at the cost of $107,000. Donations are being accepted through Hemker’s 501(c)3, the Guardians of Conservation.
Hemker Zoo has around 200 animals representing 50 various types from around the world. The zoo prepares to open for the 2023 season on May 1st, weather condition allowing.
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