Everyone agrees: 2020 was a really tough year. Covid-19 turned our world upside down, and many of us knew loss. Our Zoo/Northwest Trek had to close for months, and reopen with completely new ways of doing everything. Like so many, we lost money, and had to say goodbye to many staff members. We lost beloved animals to old age and illness. But to counter these very real sorrows, we had many joys, like connecting people safely with each other, animals and nature. Welcoming new animals into the world. Healing others from sickness. Winning Association of Zoos & Aquariums awards for conservation science. Reimagining ways to have fun and celebrate our planet.
So to 2020, we say a relieved farewell – but also a heartfelt thank-you, for a year of joys AND sorrows. Here’s our round-up list.
Sorrows…and Joys
- Temporarily closing the Zoo… and reopening to bring joy
- Reducing staff…but caring daily for animals
- Saying goodbye to beloved animals…and welcoming baby animals
- Cancelling Earth Day plans…but planting 260 trees in fall
- No big events…but Pumpkin Days and Zoolights – safely!
- Summer camp canceled… and free Zoo tickets for health care workers
- Staying apart from loved ones…and getting up close to animals
- Walrus boys leave…and making walrus music
- No school field trips…but new virtual learning
