A new exhibit is coming to the Phoenix Zoo, showcasing the work of National Geographic Explorer and photographer Joel Sartore. The exhibit will also help raise money for a new rescue center that will house animals rescued from wildlife trafficking.
Dr. Gary West, Executive Vice President of Animal Health and Living Collections at the Phoenix Zoo, joined “Arizona Horizon” to talk about the exhibit as well as the new Doornbos Animal Rescue and Care Center.
Dr. West explained that the exhibit is about more than just photography. It’s also helping to raise money for the new facility dedicated to caring for animals rescued from wildlife trafficking.
Construction on the Doornbos Animal Care and Rescue Center is underway. West said the facility is intended to increase the zoo’s ability to rescue and rehabilitate illegally trafficked wildlife, which he described as a growing problem for endangered and critically endangered species.
“The Doornbos animal care and rescue certainly is hoping to increase our capacity to help with rescue and rehabilitation of illegally trafficked wildlife, which is a growing problem for endangered and critically endangered species,” West said.
The Phoenix Zoo houses about 20 saved from trafficking. West said turtles and tortoises are often overlooked despite more than 1 million being trafficked in and out of the United States. The new center will provide emergency care, rehabilitation and health care for rescued animals.
Wildlife trafficking affects a variety of species, including corals, marine fish, birds, reptiles, and primates. West said the trafficking of animals is driven by financial gain, bringing in billions of dollars a year.
The new center will need specialized medical equipment, including portable ultrasound machines and incubators, while also being designed to accommodate many different species.
West also said the center will help raise public awareness about wildlife trafficking through special tours, programs, and educational opportunities.
Joel Sartore will be attending a fundraiser scheduled for Oct. 16 at the Phoenix Zoo. Sartore has photographed more than 18,000 animals through his Photo Ark project, including animals at the Phoenix Zoo. The event will raise money for the rescue center.
“It’s a fundraise for a rescue certainty. Very entertaining. And so I would encourage people to come,” West said.
