Iceland adopt Chester Zoo's penguins in fight to avoid closure

Iceland adopt Chester Zoo’s penguins in fight to avoid closure

Frozen superstore Iceland have adopted all of Chester Zoo’s Humboldt penguins as part of the fight to avoid permanent closure.

Iceland made the announcement via their twitter page last Friday:

“We’ve joined the fight to save Chester Zoo and have adopted the penguins.

“Chester Zoo has over 35,000 threatened and critically endangered animals but may have to close its doors for good as the government has ordered them to stay closed indefinitely.”

Chester Zoo has over 35,000 threatened and critically endangered animals.

But, there are fears it may have to close its doors for good as the government has ordered them to stay closed indefinitely.

Chester Zoo have been offered Government support, but say they need immediate action to avoid permanent closure.

This prompted the zoo to start a Just Giving page.

So far, they have raised over £3million:

In response, a spokesperson said:

“Thank you to all those who have already donated and fundraised for us.

“Your commitment has been incredible.

“But not being able to open, despite being a huge outdoor site with all the necessary safety measures in place, is having a devastating impact on our much-loved zoo.”

Iceland have also agreed to lobby the UK government on the zoo’s behalf.

They will encourage current legislation to be amended to allow zoos to open with strict social distancing guidance in place.

Richard Walker, managing director of Iceland Foods, said:

“We were all saddened to hear of Chester Zoo’s recent struggles.

“It’s the heart of the local community in Chester and a much loved family favourite – I remember visiting the zoo as a child and my own kids love going there.

“We’re proud to be able to lend them our support both through the adoption of the Humboldt penguins on behalf of our colleagues, and by lobbying in support of zoos being allowed to reopen soon.”

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