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Posts by Zoological Disaster Response, Rescue, and Recovery (ZDR3)

On left, A satellite image of a hurricane. On right it says "Hurricane season is coming. We're ready! Are you? We are Stronger Together." The ZDR3 logo is on lower right.

On left, A satellite image of a hurricane. On right it says "Hurricane season is coming. We're ready! Are you? We are Stronger Together." The ZDR3 logo is on lower right.

Since 2020, ZDR3 Network teams have responded to 17 missions at 15 zoological facilities impacted by six named storms. The connections we’ve built and the lessons we’ve learned will guide us as we continue to enhance our industry’s readiness for whatever comes next. www.zdr3.org/how-to-join-...

1 day ago 3 2 0 0
Palm trees are blowing in a breeze against a grayish sky. The ZDR3 logo is in the top right corner. The text says: "Update: Super Typhoon Sinlaku" and "We are Stronger Together."

Palm trees are blowing in a breeze against a grayish sky. The ZDR3 logo is in the top right corner. The text says: "Update: Super Typhoon Sinlaku" and "We are Stronger Together."

Super Typhoon Sinlaku brought significant devastation to island communities across the Central Pacific, especially Guam and the Northern Marianas. ZDR3 has not received any deployment requests but we continue monitoring, understanding that needs often emerge in the days and weeks after an event.

3 days ago 4 2 0 0
The graphic shows the path of a super typhoon heading towards Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. At top it says "Super Typhoon Sinlaku. 175MPH Sustained Winds, 903 MB & Still Strengthening." At bottom: the ZDR3 logo and tagline, "We are Stronger Together."

The graphic shows the path of a super typhoon heading towards Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. At top it says "Super Typhoon Sinlaku. 175MPH Sustained Winds, 903 MB & Still Strengthening." At bottom: the ZDR3 logo and tagline, "We are Stronger Together."

Super Typhoon Sinlaku will bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, & potential flooding impacts to the Mariana Islands & Guam, both of which are US territories. ZDR3 is monitoring conditions & maintaining situational awareness. We stand with our colleagues, even when they are halfway around the world.

1 week ago 4 2 0 0
At top it says "Sponsor Spotlight, Tier 2 - $10,000+" followed by the ZDR3 logo. In the middle is the A Thru Z logo, which features a gorilla holding a bird and the slogan "From concept to completion, A Thru Z, The right choice!" At bottom is the ZDR3 slogan, "We are Stronger Together" followed by a URL: zdr3.org/support-zdr3

At top it says "Sponsor Spotlight, Tier 2 - $10,000+" followed by the ZDR3 logo. In the middle is the A Thru Z logo, which features a gorilla holding a bird and the slogan "From concept to completion, A Thru Z, The right choice!" At bottom is the ZDR3 slogan, "We are Stronger Together" followed by a URL: zdr3.org/support-zdr3

Thank you to Tier 1 Sponsor A Thru Z!

Sponsors dedicated to our cause make it possible for ZDR3 to carry out the mission of providing aid to zoological facilities, aquariums, and sanctuaries before, during, and after disasters and crises.

#zoo #aquarium #sanctuary #wildlife

1 week ago 1 0 0 0
Over a photo of a swirling storm cloud the graphic says "CSU's 2026 Atlantic Storm Forecast. ZDR3 is ready. Are you?" It then compares their 2026 forecast against the average from 1991-2020. Most notably, they predict 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 2 major hurricanes. At the bottom it says "We are Stronger Together" beside the ZDR3 logo.

Over a photo of a swirling storm cloud the graphic says "CSU's 2026 Atlantic Storm Forecast. ZDR3 is ready. Are you?" It then compares their 2026 forecast against the average from 1991-2020. Most notably, they predict 13 named storms, 6 hurricanes, and 2 major hurricanes. At the bottom it says "We are Stronger Together" beside the ZDR3 logo.

Researchers at the CSU Department of Atmospheric Science are predicting a “somewhat below-average Atlantic hurricane season for 2026.” The forecast isn’t exact; it’s intended to provide a best estimate. Need help with your contingency plan? Contact us at admin@zdr3.org

#zoo #aquarium #wildlife

1 week ago 2 1 0 0
At top it says "We strive to minimize stress and disruption for animals that have experienced a disaster." Below is a photo of a kangaroo in an indoor enclosure, with a bowl of food. That photo is in a box over a photo of hurricane destruction. At the bottom it says "We are Stronger Together" beside the ZDR3 logo.

At top it says "We strive to minimize stress and disruption for animals that have experienced a disaster." Below is a photo of a kangaroo in an indoor enclosure, with a bowl of food. That photo is in a box over a photo of hurricane destruction. At the bottom it says "We are Stronger Together" beside the ZDR3 logo.

In a crisis, the systems that support animal well-being—consistent care routines, stable environments, access to food, water, and medical treatment—are often the first to be disrupted. That’s why one of ZDR3’s primary goals is to manage tasks that allow staff to focus on the animals in their care.

2 weeks ago 6 2 0 0
At top it says, "What a Winter! Thanks to those who offered assistance to colleagues in need, and to the many who were on standby. Learn more in our latest blog post. We are Stronger Together" There are 2 infographics; 1 for Winter Storm Fern, 1 for Blizzard of 2026. Each describes details of those storms, and how ZDR3 monitored and responded to them. These details can be found in the blog post.

At top it says, "What a Winter! Thanks to those who offered assistance to colleagues in need, and to the many who were on standby. Learn more in our latest blog post. We are Stronger Together" There are 2 infographics; 1 for Winter Storm Fern, 1 for Blizzard of 2026. Each describes details of those storms, and how ZDR3 monitored and responded to them. These details can be found in the blog post.

Winter '25-'26 was record-breaking for many zoological facilities across the U.S. Learn more about how the ZDR3 Network stepped up for one another in our latest Stronger Together blog post. www.zdr3.org/stronger-tog...

We are Stronger Together

#zoo #aquarium #sanctuary #wildlife

2 weeks ago 2 0 0 0
A child with his back to the camera has his hands against the front of an aquarium in which a shark and several fish are swimming. The ZDR3 logo is in the upper right hand corner. The post says "ZDR3 is the only organization dedicated exclusively to supporting zoological institutions before, during, and after disasters.  Preparedness and mutual aid safeguard the lives of animals, the well-being of caregivers, and the continuity of missions. We are Stronger Together."

A child with his back to the camera has his hands against the front of an aquarium in which a shark and several fish are swimming. The ZDR3 logo is in the upper right hand corner. The post says "ZDR3 is the only organization dedicated exclusively to supporting zoological institutions before, during, and after disasters. Preparedness and mutual aid safeguard the lives of animals, the well-being of caregivers, and the continuity of missions. We are Stronger Together."

We have supported numerous disaster responses, mobilizing rapid, coordinated aid when it mattered most. These experiences have built enduring trust & partnership across the field, demonstrating that even in crisis, collaboration remains our greatest strength. Join us! www.zdr3.org/how-to-join-...

3 weeks ago 1 0 1 0
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Donate to ZDR3 Help support ZDR3 by donating or sharing with your friends.

To support Wally’s run, click on the link and use the dropdown menu: www.paypal.com/donate/?host...

3 weeks ago 2 2 0 0
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On left it says "This April, our team will run a 10K and a half marathon to raise funds for ZDR3. We invite you to join us in this mission. Your donation in Lupa Zoo’s name will help fund ZDR3’s lifesaving efforts.”
-Wally Lupa, Director of Animal Care and Facility Development, Lupa Zoo
Below that are the Lupa Zoo and ZDR3 logos with the tagline "We are Stronger Together."
On right, a smiling man with his right arm held up is running through the finish line of a race. Behind him are blurred images of others joyfully reaching the finish line.

On left it says "This April, our team will run a 10K and a half marathon to raise funds for ZDR3. We invite you to join us in this mission. Your donation in Lupa Zoo’s name will help fund ZDR3’s lifesaving efforts.” -Wally Lupa, Director of Animal Care and Facility Development, Lupa Zoo Below that are the Lupa Zoo and ZDR3 logos with the tagline "We are Stronger Together." On right, a smiling man with his right arm held up is running through the finish line of a race. Behind him are blurred images of others joyfully reaching the finish line.

“I chose ZDR3 because their mission speaks to our belief that every animal deserves protection, especially in moments of crisis. When natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, or floods strike, ZDR3 steps in to ensure that animals in zoos and sanctuaries receive the expert care they need.”

3 weeks ago 4 2 1 0
The ZDR3 logo is at top. Large waves are at bottom. Text: "National Tsunami Awareness Week, March 24-30, 2026. A tsunami is a series of massive ocean waves caused by earthquakes, underwater landslides, volcanic eruptions, or asteroids. Travels 20-30 MPH with waves 10 - 100 ft. high. Causes flooding; creates problems with transportation, power, communications, and drinking water. Can happen anywhere along U.S. coasts; those that border the Pacific Ocean or Caribbean at greatest risk."

The ZDR3 logo is at top. Large waves are at bottom. Text: "National Tsunami Awareness Week, March 24-30, 2026. A tsunami is a series of massive ocean waves caused by earthquakes, underwater landslides, volcanic eruptions, or asteroids. Travels 20-30 MPH with waves 10 - 100 ft. high. Causes flooding; creates problems with transportation, power, communications, and drinking water. Can happen anywhere along U.S. coasts; those that border the Pacific Ocean or Caribbean at greatest risk."

A tsunami can kill or injure people & animals, & damage or destroy buildings & infrastructure. Ready offers helpful information about how to prepare for & protect yourself before, during, & after a tsunami hits.

Learn more: www.ready.gov/tsunamis

#tsunami #zoo #aquarium #sanctuary #wildlife

4 weeks ago 1 0 0 0
A young snow leopard peeks out from what appears to be a cave-like habitat. Another young snow leopard is out of focus behind it. At top it says "Coordinated disaster response safeguards conservation missions." At the bottom is the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo and the slogan "We are Stronger Together."

A young snow leopard peeks out from what appears to be a cave-like habitat. Another young snow leopard is out of focus behind it. At top it says "Coordinated disaster response safeguards conservation missions." At the bottom is the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo and the slogan "We are Stronger Together."

When disaster strikes, the continuity of conservation programs—from breeding initiatives to genetic safeguarding—can hang in the balance. By helping zoological facilities recover faster & more sustainably, we can assist in safeguarding decades of progress in animal care, education, & biodiversity.

1 month ago 4 2 0 0
This graphic features the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo. At top it says, "Join us at the AZA Mid-Year Safety Summit!" At bottom, "We are Stronger Together."

This graphic features the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo. At top it says, "Join us at the AZA Mid-Year Safety Summit!" At bottom, "We are Stronger Together."

At this year’s AZA Mid-Year Safety Summit, ZDR3 will be presenting “Protecting People and Strengthening Security in Zoos and Aquariums.” We hope you’ll join us for this presentation. Our team looks forward to the opportunity to spend time with colleagues!

#AZA #zoo #aquarium #sanctuary #wildlife

1 month ago 1 1 0 0
A mandrill, looking directly at the camera, is sitting on a tree branch with blurred foliage behind it. At top it says "What type of zoological facilities are members of the ZDR3 Network?" At bottom is the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo beside the tagline "We are Stronger Together."

A mandrill, looking directly at the camera, is sitting on a tree branch with blurred foliage behind it. At top it says "What type of zoological facilities are members of the ZDR3 Network?" At bottom is the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo beside the tagline "We are Stronger Together."

Our inclusive network partners with all industry business models, including zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, wildlife rehabilitation centers, outreach educators, wildlife ranches, & conservation breeding centers representing a range of accreditation and membership groups. Learn more: www.zdr3.org/faq

1 month ago 4 2 0 0
Top of graphic includes a spotlight effect, the ZDR3 logo, and the words: "Sponsor Spotlight: Tier 2 - $5,000 - $9,999." Below are logos for the Marlene Ledonne Living Trust; Fowlkes, Norman & Associates; Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo; Birmingham Zoo; San Antonio Zoo; and Austin Zoo. At the bottom of the graphic are stars crossing what appears to be light on a floor. Below that are the words "We are Stronger Together" and a url: zdr3.org/support-zdr3

Top of graphic includes a spotlight effect, the ZDR3 logo, and the words: "Sponsor Spotlight: Tier 2 - $5,000 - $9,999." Below are logos for the Marlene Ledonne Living Trust; Fowlkes, Norman & Associates; Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo; Birmingham Zoo; San Antonio Zoo; and Austin Zoo. At the bottom of the graphic are stars crossing what appears to be light on a floor. Below that are the words "We are Stronger Together" and a url: zdr3.org/support-zdr3

Thank you to our Tier 2 Sponsors!

Sponsors dedicated to our cause make it possible for ZDR3 to carry out the mission of providing aid to zoological facilities before, during, and after disasters and crises.

We are Stronger Together

#zoo #aquarium #sanctuary #wildlife #disasterresponse

1 month ago 2 0 0 0
The graphic includes photos of 8 women.

The graphic includes photos of 8 women.

1 month ago 4 1 0 0
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The women of ZDR3 are proud to run the only zoological response organization in the US! “I’m constantly impressed by the work this team does to assist zoological institutions before, during, & after disasters,” says Michael Fouraker, ZDR3 Board President & Executive Director of the Fort Worth Zoo.

1 month ago 5 1 1 0
At top it says, "In a disaster, keepers are the first responders for the animals in their care." Underneath is a photo of a person holding an animal crate containing a prehensile-tailed porcupine. Below that it says "That's why we partnered with the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) on a webinar: 'A Keeper's Role in a Natural Disaster." At bottom are the logos for AAZK and ZDR3 on either side of the phrase: "We are Stronger Together."

At top it says, "In a disaster, keepers are the first responders for the animals in their care." Underneath is a photo of a person holding an animal crate containing a prehensile-tailed porcupine. Below that it says "That's why we partnered with the American Association of Zoo Keepers (AAZK) on a webinar: 'A Keeper's Role in a Natural Disaster." At bottom are the logos for AAZK and ZDR3 on either side of the phrase: "We are Stronger Together."

For animals in human care, keepers are their first responders. Everything a keeper does before, during, & after a disaster directly affects survival, stress levels, & long-term wellbeing. See the webinar recording: click on link & enter passcode 5pK$oCr3: smithsonian.zoom.us/rec/componen...

#AAZK

1 month ago 8 2 0 0
Photo of an owl looking at the viewer. The text says: "What are you waiting for? No cost: *to join the ZDR3 Network *to receive assistance." At the bottom it says "We are Stronger Together" beside the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo.

Photo of an owl looking at the viewer. The text says: "What are you waiting for? No cost: *to join the ZDR3 Network *to receive assistance." At the bottom it says "We are Stronger Together" beside the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo.

Our daily operations are funded by donations from supporters & Congressionally appropriated funds. Responses are funded by ZDR3 Network facilities that deploy teams & resources to colleagues at impacted facilities, & by donors who support a specific response.

Join us! www.zdr3.org/how-to-join-...

1 month ago 3 1 0 0
The graphic titled "Snow Load Awareness Guide" includes the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo (left) above a photo a snow plow; a photo of someone shoveling snow (top right), and a collapsed barn roof with snow in front of it (bottom right).

The graphic titled "Snow Load Awareness Guide" includes the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo (left) above a photo a snow plow; a photo of someone shoveling snow (top right), and a collapsed barn roof with snow in front of it (bottom right).

This winter two ZDR3 Network facilities reported roof collapses due to the weight of snow and ice; one was a barn, one was an animal enclosure. Fortunately, no staff or animals were injured. Check out our snow load awareness guide for zoological facilities: static1.squarespace.com/static/602ec...

1 month ago 2 0 0 0
A lynx is looking out from a cozy "igloo" enclosure enveloped in snow.

A lynx is looking out from a cozy "igloo" enclosure enveloped in snow.

Some happy news from Coastal Wilds! www.coasttv.com/news/blizzar...
Thanks to Plumpton Park Zoo assisting. Our network is built on peer support—professionals showing up for one another.

We are Stronger Together

Photo: Coastal Wilds

#snow #blizzard #zoo #aquarium #sanctuary #wildlife

1 month ago 3 1 0 0
A shovel filled with snow above a cleared patch beside a bigger pile of snow.

A shovel filled with snow above a cleared patch beside a bigger pile of snow.

We received a request for support after the recent winter storm in the Northeast. We are actively coordinating with impacted facilities to assess needs and deploy resources as appropriate. We appreciate the professionalism of teams working through challenging conditions!
#blizzard #zoo #aquarium

1 month ago 4 1 0 0
In the foreground, a  shovel stands in the snow; the handle is all that is visible. Behind it is equipment and a small building covered in snow. In the background there is a fence with snow covering more than half of it.

In the foreground, a shovel stands in the snow; the handle is all that is visible. Behind it is equipment and a small building covered in snow. In the background there is a fence with snow covering more than half of it.

Ride-out teams ensure that, even if roads become impassable, there are personnel onsite to care for the animals, assess damage, communicate with offsite colleagues, clear safe pathways for staff to reach the animals in their care, and much more.

#blizzard2026 #rideout #zoo #aquarium #wildlife

1 month ago 4 1 0 0
In the foreground, the start of a pathway being cleared shows the snow is about 2 feet deep. Beside it, a shovel is standing in the snow. In the background is a doorway partially covered with snow.

In the foreground, the start of a pathway being cleared shows the snow is about 2 feet deep. Beside it, a shovel is standing in the snow. In the background is a doorway partially covered with snow.

Every facility’s ride-out team and strategy is unique. The team can be composed of keepers, vets, facilities staff, and/or horticulturists who leave the comfort of their homes to ride out a storm.

1 month ago 4 1 1 0
A group of people in winter gear, one holding a shovel, are outside of a beluga whale tank viewing window.

A group of people in winter gear, one holding a shovel, are outside of a beluga whale tank viewing window.

The ride-out team from the Mystic Aquarium just sent us these shots. We wish them the best as they dig out! Ride-out teams are an essential part of disaster preparation for many facilities. They are their facilities’ first responders.

1 month ago 24 6 1 2
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The graphic includes a map of the East Coast that shows where ZDR3 Network facilities are located, and areas of predicted snow accumulation.

The graphic includes a map of the East Coast that shows where ZDR3 Network facilities are located, and areas of predicted snow accumulation.

A winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, gusty winds, and coastal flooding to parts of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Here’s how to contact us if your facility needs assistance www.zdr3.org/contact

We are Stronger Together

#winterstorm #zoo #aquarium #sanctuary #wildlife

1 month ago 1 0 0 0
Two Barbary sheep are romping in the snow.

Two Barbary sheep are romping in the snow.

Kathy Diekman, Director of the Chahinkapa Zoo in Wahpeton, North Dakota, wrote a poignant article about the value of membership in a nationwide zoological disaster response network. Read the article www.zdr3.org/stronger-tog...

We are Stronger Together

#zoo #aquarium #sanctuary #wildlife

2 months ago 4 1 0 0
The graphic says "ZDR3 is Monitoring Two Wildfires" and "Please contact us if you need assistance." It includes 2 maps developed by NOAA of regions impacted by wildfires. There is a fire burning in the background. On the left it says "We are Stronger Together" above the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo.

The graphic says "ZDR3 is Monitoring Two Wildfires" and "Please contact us if you need assistance." It includes 2 maps developed by NOAA of regions impacted by wildfires. There is a fire burning in the background. On the left it says "We are Stronger Together" above the red, white, and black ZDR3 logo.

Facilities in the area are encouraged to review evacuation triggers, emergency power plans, and staffing contingencies as conditions evolve. At this time, no requests for support have been received. Here’s how to contact us if you need assistance: www.zdr3.org/contact

#wildfire #zoo #aquarium

2 months ago 2 1 0 0
Severe Weather Tax Free Weekend, February 20-22, 2026 – Alabama Emergency Management Agency (EMA)

See a fact sheet from the Alabama Department of Revenue: ema.alabama.gov/14193/severe...

2 months ago 1 0 0 0
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8 items to buy for your storm emergency kit during the sales tax holiday Take advantage of the Alabama Severe Weather Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday to save money and stock up on the supplies you need when unpredictable weather strikes.

See a list of suggested items for your storm emergency kit: www.alabamapower.com/news/communi...

2 months ago 1 1 1 0