Three months after a devastating fire killed 87 animals, the Little Ponderosa Zoo is back open and hoping you'll come visit!
On December 4, fire broke out in the rescue zoo's main barn, which housed about 200 animals. Zoo workers raced into the burning building to save as many animals as possible, but weren't able to reach them all.
In addition to the loss of life, the zoo lost most of their supplies and food.
Since the fire, zoo staff have been focused on taking care of the surviving animals and a plan for rebuilding. Thousands of dollars has been donated by a caring community to help with the rebuilding efforts, and they are still collecting donations.
They are hoping work on the new rescue facility building will start on Monday, March 12. The new building will also have a vet clinic with donated equipment.
On March 17, they're inviting the public to come see the plans for the new building and to visit the animals.
Meanwhile, Little Ponderosa Zoo is back open every day, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. They are located at 629 Granite Road in Clinton. There is an admission fee. Get more information here.