The Canadian Association of Zoos has demanded that the GV Zoo fix their hippopotamus exhibit, or risk losing accreditation. Twenty years ago, two hippos drowned in their pond when it froze on Christmas day, and their barn remains unheated. The American Zoo and Aquarium Association requires a hippo barn to be heated between 13 and 18 degrees C, year round, and yet the barn at the GV Zoo is freezing with no electricity. The zoo promised it would fix both, but to date, nothing has been done. If the GV Zoo loses its accreditation, it will be unable to trade animals with other zoos, nor will it be able to maintain its breeding programs because they would have nowhere to send surplus animals.The GV Zoo says it cannot afford the needed improvements, yet last August they revealed plans to spend $250,000 on a children's playground and more flower beds.
The GV Zoo has been given this week only to render its decision to the Canadian Association, or face the consequences.
Should the GV Zoo refuse to make improvements and subsequently lose their accreditation, will the BCSPCA lay charges citing neglect and seize the two hippos? Could this be the beginning of the end for the Greater Vancouver Zoo?