MADISON, Wis. — Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison has adopted two new leopard geckos from J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR).
The geckos are a part of the 120 reptiles taken from a storage unit in Waukesha last month. The reptile breeder keeping the aquatic animals called JRAAR to surrender them. Ever since then, JRAAR volunteers have been working non-stop to find them a new home.
After hearing about JRAAR’s situation, the staff at the Henry Vilas Zoo offered to help.
“This is the ideal situation,” said John Moyles of JRAAR. “We crowdsource adoption fees for accredited sanctuaries, zoos, and educators because we feel that they will be in the most capable hands, and we do not want to burden them with costs.”
The geckos will be trained to become “Animal Ambassadors” that educate people of all ages about animals at the zoo. Animal Ambassadors usually take part in the zoo’s Critter Connection program, which is a virtual education option for schools, camps or other groups. The hope is to inspire the next generation of animal lovers.
A fundraiser has been started to cover adoption fees for the two reptiles. Donations can be made here.