Hunger is a year round issue, for both humans and animals. Zoos that depend on business during the warmer months need your help. That's why Sierra Safari Zoo is holding its winter food drive.
“Feed costs continue to go up,” said Jimmie Martin, Co-founder of Sierra Safari Zoo, located north of Reno near Red Rock.
Martin says one of the reasons why the prices are rising is the drought. The demand for hay, alfalfa and other grains is high, while the supply is lower.
“There isn't enough water to raise them, so the prices have gone up,” he said.
There are more than 40 species of animals at Sierra Safari Zoo including lions, leopards, baboons, peacocks, zebras, a liger, and more.
The carnivores eat about 80 pounds of meat each day. If you add the food costs up, it costs the zoo about $12,000 a month.
Volunteer works lowers the cost of operating the zoo.
“They are like our family,” said Sara Marsano Bouchard, a volunteer at the zoo. “They are like our family and our kids. I've gotten to know each one of them personally.”
Sierra Safari zoo is open from April 1- October 31st. For that reason, the revenue isn't coming in this time of the year.
