The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens will remain open, will closely monitor coronavirus.
Here is the press release:
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardensis committed to the health and safety of its visitors, staff, volunteers, and animals. Our number one priority is to provide a safe environment for all. We are closely monitoring the situation and are working to stay up to date on the latest news and recommendations from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), California Department of Health, Riverside County Department of Health, public officials, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, and other partner organizations.
The Living Desert remains open at this time.
Open air areas of the Zoo will continue to be accessible to guests. Out of an abundance of caution, certain indoor spaces and Zoo programming will be closed to the public at least until the end of March. These closures include: Wildlife Wonders Show, Village Reptile Show, Keeper Chats, Giraffe Feeding, Petting Kraal, Carousel, Discovery Center, Tennity Wildlife Hospital and Conservation Center, Butterflies, Camel Connection, and Me and You at the Zoo/Garden. Park shuttles, food and beverage outlets, and gift shop remain open at this time.
For guests who wish to visit the Zoo and enjoy the outdoor areas, The Living Desert will have hand sanitizer at the entrance, guest services and other locations throughout the Zoo.
The Living Desert is committed to following public policy, current health recommendations, and government-issued guidelines. We are closely following the guidelines and recommendations from the CDC, WHO, along with local government authorities including the Riverside County Department of Health.
The Living Desert has invested in increased cleaning and sanitization measures throughout the Park. Guest, staff and animal safety is always our number one priority. In addition to our regular cleaning schedule, we have implemented additional hygiene protocols with enhanced cleaning procedures to keep guests, staff and animals safe.
The Living Desert continues to promote personal steps to reduce the spread of the virus. Staff and guests are encouraged to remain diligent about preventative hygiene measures including, but not limited to:
- Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; and/or use of >60% alcohol hand sanitizers, if handwashing is not available.
- Stay vigilant about maintaining hygiene protocols to prevent the spread of disease, and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- To avoid spreading disease, stay home if you have any flu-like symptoms including: fever, coughing, shortness of breath, and sore throat.
We are taking this situation seriously and are committed to minimizing the spread of COVID-19. We will communicate any updates via email, website and social media.
For updated information and details about upcoming events, please visit: LivingDesert.org/Health
