It's hard not to fall in love with the animals at Singapore Zoo. Even during the circuit breaker, we kept up with the antics of the African penguins and the orangutans. And if you want to show more love and support to these animals, you can do so through the new "Adopt an Animal" initiative recently launched by Wildlife Reserves Singapore (WRS). The programme allows animal lovers and members of the public to show their support for wildlife conservation by sponsoring an animal of their choice.
You won't be able to bring these critters home, but the funds from the symbolic adoption help contribute to the care of the animals in many ways. From providing nutritious meals and covering the cost of medical care to supporting research and conservation projects that help protect threatened species in Singapore and the region. Every amount goes a long way.
There are three tiers of adoption contributions ranging from $200 to $1,500 and ten animals are up for adoption. On the list are Ah Meng the Sumatran orangutan; Ben & Bella the African penguins; Bosco the red ruffed lemur; Bunny the two-toed sloth; Coco the Aldabra giant tortoise; Matahari the Malayan sun bear; Pedro the California sea lion; Psota the pygmy hippopotamus; Rambo the eastern grey kangaroo, and Ronnie the rex rabbit. Some perks of adopting an animal include privileges like having a physical certificate and exclusive invitations to WRS events.
The Senior Director of Partnership Development at WRS, Isabel Cheng shared that many members of the public have asked how they can make meaningful contributions towards the zoo animals and the wildlife conservation work it does. She believes that the initiative is an accessible way more people can play active roles in conservation and be inspired to care for wildlife. WRS also plans to expand the adoption list to include more animals from Jurong Bird Park, River Safari and Night Safari. “The living collection in our parks are animal ambassadors for their wild cousins," she adds.
If you'd like to make a difference, there are also plenty of support and volunteer schemes at WRS such as micro and corporate sponsorships, as well as giving personal time as a Conservation Ambassador, docent or Wildlife Buddy. To make an adoption, visit the WRS website.