Update - August 11, 3:25 P.M.::
Animal Ark and its animals are safe as the facility carries out a phased evacuation in response to the fire situation.
According to Animal Ark, the evacuation is being conducted in partnership with local authorities, wildlife officials and people from other sanctuaries.
Animal Ark said it has additional plans in place to move the remaining animals if conditions require it.
Staff members are working around the clock to care for the animals. Wildlife officials, firefighters and zoological professionals from other zoos and sanctuaries are also assisting and standing by to provide additional support if needed.
The Ark credited local fire crews with helping keep the facility safe and thanked firefighters and emergency personnel working to protect the community.
Animal Ark also thanked community members for their support. The facility said it can only accommodate trained personnel on the grounds at this time and encouraged people who want to help to consider making a contribution.
The facility said its top priorities are the safety of the community and the care and safety of the animals in its care.
Update - August 11, 12:45 P.M.:
Animal Ark is safe after the fire came close to the facility overnight, with firefighters patrolling the grounds and fire trucks stationed on-site.
According to Animal Ark in an online post, the fire burned near the park's perimeter, but the facility itself was unharmed. The animals are safe, and staff members are continuing to monitor conditions closely.
Animal Ark said staff are on the grounds and will have a better understanding of what Tuesday will look like as conditions and access become clearer.
The public is being asked to avoid the access roads and the Ark to keep those roads clear for emergency responders.
The update comes as the Fred Mountain Fire continues to threaten the area around Animal Ark. The facility was closed temporarily because of the wildfire and will remain closed until the fires in the area are contained and conditions are safe for visitors, staff and animals.
Staff were on site throughout Monday caring for the animals and monitoring the situation. Animal Ark also has an emergency plan in place if another evacuation becomes necessary.
The facility thanked firefighters and emergency personnel who worked through the night to protect the community and Animal Ark, as well as people who have checked in and sent messages of support.
(Animal Ark contributed to this story.)
Original Story - August 10:
Animal Ark will be closed temporarily due to wildfires in the area.
In a post on Instagram, Animal Ark says it will remain closed until the fires in the area are contained and the situation is safe for visitors, staff, and animals.
An exact date for reopening has not yet been established.
Animal Ark is located right by the Fred Mountain Fire.
Staff were on site throughout Monday caring for the animals and carefully monitoring the situation.
They have an emergency plan in place if further evacuation is necessary.
