The BC Wildlife Park is closing down to the public effective immediately.

General manager Glen Grant says it had a little over 100 total guests through the park over the weekend, but it was felt that it was time to close things up for now during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We had some guests, a couple came from Germany and another couple was from Switzerland and we’re thinking if we’re going to have international visitors coming through the park, that is a concern.” Those visitors may have taken all necessary precautions, but it’s the uncertainty that makes people uneasy and it was better to just shut things down, says Grant.

Grant says it’s for the safety of everyone in Kamloops including staff and it is doing its part to try and get through this situation as quickly as possible. “It’s going to be hard to keep the park going financially with zero revenue coming in the door. Last year we has a good year so we do have a little bit of reserve funds, but we have essential services of animal care staff looking after all the animals here in our care, they still need to be fed.”

Grant says it has had to let a couple of staff members go in order to keep other ones around a little longer. “Our veterinary staff and our animal care staff are our number one priority to keep animals fed and healthy. But again, money is going to run out awfully quick. So, if anyone every thought about donating to the park, now is a good time.”