Wetheriggs Zoo and Animal Sanctuary facts for kids
Wetheriggs Animal Rescue (also known as Wetheriggs Zoo and Animal Sanctuary in the past) is a special place in the United Kingdom. It's a registered charity, which means it's a non-profit organization that helps animals.
This animal rescue center is now located near Barnard Castle in County Durham, England, right off the A66 road. Wetheriggs helps many different kinds of animals. They don't usually take domestic cats and dogs, but they welcome a wide variety of other creatures. Many animals living there were once pets that their owners could no longer care for. Most of the other animals have been rescued from different places across the UK. Some animals have even come from other animal centers around the world as part of animal swaps.
Contents
A Look Back: History of Wetheriggs
How It Started and Grew
The animal rescue first opened its doors in 2006. It was located at the historic Wetheriggs Pottery site. Terry Bowes, who had been a zookeeper for 45 years, started the center.
In 2008, the center became known as the Wetheriggs Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre. This change happened because of their important work. They tried to bring back the Cumberland Pig, worked with rare types of poultry (like chickens and ducks), and helped native newts.
Later, in 2011, the center changed its name again to Wetheriggs Zoo and Animal Sanctuary. Then, in 2014, the animal rescue moved to a new home. This new location was at Thorpe Farm Centre, close to Barnard Castle in County Durham. With the move, it was renamed Wetheriggs Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre once more.
Who Lives at Wetheriggs?
A Home for Many Animals
The center is home to a huge variety of animals! You can find alpacas, sheep, goats, cows, and horses. There are also many birds like chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys.
Other animals include pigs, donkeys, rabbits, and guinea pigs. Smaller creatures like rats, mice, gerbils, and hedgehogs also live there. Bird lovers will enjoy seeing budgies and quails. You might even spot skunks, tarantulas, and various reptiles.
Some of the more unusual or exotic animals that Wetheriggs cares for are not always on display for visitors. This helps ensure their comfort and safety.
How Wetheriggs is Supported
Helping the Animals Thrive
Wetheriggs Animal Rescue relies on the kindness of people to keep running. Visitors who come to the center pay an admission fee. All of this money goes directly to helping the animals. It helps pay for their food, shelter, and veterinary care. People can also donate money directly to the center to support their important work.
External links
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