SEATTLE — The pandemic has caused all of us to make changes in our day-to-day living, and now it has forced leaders at the Pacific Science Center to make “difficult decisions,” including finding new homes for its animals from its Living Exhibits.
From reptiles to a naked mole rat colony, animals were relocated to new homes where they will receive the same level of veterinary care that is provided at the science center, officials said.
Science center leaders said while summer in-person camps, which provided consistent stimulation for the animals, have been over for some time and with limited operations, the animals need to receive the proper interaction so they can thrive.
The naked mole rats were relocated to the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert, Calif. Caregivers at the zoo already care for the species there and are familiar with its needs.
Insects, reptiles and critters in the tide pool have also been relocated.
Pacific Science Center leaders said in part that “Though we miss them, we know the animals are in great homes and will receive all the attention, care and love they need. In the meantime, we are taking this opportunity to plan for PacSci’s renewal. While we don’t have a reopening date set yet, our goal is to deliver an even better experience than before.”
Operations at the science center are expected to remain limited for the rest of the year and well into 2021.