£2.5 million emergency funding for zoos and aquariums

Zoos and aquariums impacted financially by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic are being invited to apply for a new round of emergency funding.

Applications opened this week for the Zoo and Aquarium Animal Welfare Fund, with up to £2.5 million available to support animal care and key conservation work.

The Scottish Government has extended the scheme to support conservation projects, which could otherwise be forced to stop due to funding shortfalls.

Minister for Rural Affairs and the Natural Environment Ben Macpherson said:

“We recognise this has been a challenging year for zoos and aquariums across Scotland. COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the sector, with restrictions affecting visitor numbers – an important source of revenue for zoos and aquariums.

“While some of the wider business support packages have helped the sector, we recognise that many zoos and aquariums face significant ongoing costs to look after the animals and wildlife in their care.

“I would encourage zoos and aquariums to apply to this enhanced fund, as it is important that their conservation work is able to continue.”

Background

The Scottish Zoo and Aquarium Animal Welfare Fund reopened on 5 February and will close on 10 March.

The conservation element of the Fund will open for applications later this month.