Dartmoor Zoo unveils new campaign in response to cost of living crisis

Dartmoor Zoo is reaching out for help amid financial challenges intensified by the current cost-of-living crisis. Situated just south of Dartmoor, the zoo is facing a decline in admissions and reduced donations crucial for its conservation efforts.

With visitors waiting for payday, discounts, or special events, the zoo is grappling with rising costs for animal care and essential supplies.

So in response, Dartmoor Zoo has launched the Give Us an Hour campaign, calling for a range of support. The campaign encourages people to contribute, whether through volunteering or fundraising, to help fund crucial projects such as caring for the critically endangered Amur leopard.

Acknowledging the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, a spokesperson from the zoo said: “The cost-of-living crisis has affected us in a variety of ways.” They said essential expenses - from animal feed and bedding to vet costs and enclosure materials - have surged, doubling some of the crucial bills.

Within the first weekend of launching the campaign, public donations exceeded £1,000, showcasing strong community support. Dartmoor Zoo remains hopeful for positive outcomes as the campaign gains momentum, emphasising the impactful role of community involvement and small contributions in achieving their conservation goals.

In 2023 alone, the zoo spent approximately £60,000 on feeding its animals, with the electricity bill surpassing £72,000. The weekly average spend on overall zoo running costs stands at £26,000. For 2024, a modest increase to £27,000 per week is anticipated.

To address the financial struggles and support wildlife conservation, Dartmoor Zoo has launched the Give Us an Hour campaign. This campaign emphasises the power of collective impact, encouraging people to contribute even in small ways. The campaign acknowledges the economic challenges faced by the public, offering alternatives such as time donations through volunteering or fundraising.

The funds raised through the campaign will be directed toward various projects. Notably, the spotlight is on the Amur leopard, a critically endangered species. Dartmoor Zoo is on a quest to find a breeding partner for the leopard, contributing directly to the preservation of this endangered species.

Other projects include Prickly Hedge Lodge, a hedgehog rehabilitation facility, and efforts to bring in a female lynx as a breeding match for the zoo's male Flaviu.

The behind-the-scenes work and associated costs for such initiatives underline the impact donations can have in fulfilling the zoo’s ambitious goals.

The spokesperson added: “We became a charity 10 years ago in 2014, and we are striving for people to be aware of what that means and the conservation efforts we are making."

Community involvement is seen as an opportunity to help the zoo reach new audiences, dispelling misconceptions about its location and raising awareness of the hard work behind the scenes.

As the campaign gains momentum, Dartmoor Zoo remains optimistic about the positive stories and outcomes yet to unfold, fuelled by the collective efforts of a caring community.

To support Dartmoor Zoo’s Give Us an Hour campaign, CLICK HERE

Every small contribution makes a significant impact on wildlife conservation.