Written by
ZSL
Zoological Society of London
22 September 2022
Charity’s fundraising gala, Safari in the City, raises vital funds for wildlife at London Zoo
London Zoo rolled out the green carpet last night at ZSL’s annual Safari in the City fundraising gala - raising more than £436,000, to help save wildlife from extinction.
The black-tie event, which featured a special tribute to HM Queen Elizabeth II - Patron of ZSL since her coronation in 1953 - was attended by 300 of the charity’s supporters including gala host, wildlife presenter Megan McCubbin, and featured a live auction compered by expert Richard Madley.
After-hour tours saw guests explore the conservation zoo, visiting species on the brink of being lost from the wild forever including three Critically Endangered Sumatran tiger cubs, born in June. The opportunity to name the cubs raised an incredible £51,000 as part of the evening’s live auction.
ZSL cares for 184 threatened species, from the scaly to the furry, at its two zoos, London and Whipsnade, including 17 species that are extinct in the wild – including the scimitar horned oryx and partula snails, which are now being reintroduced to wild habitats thanks to the vital work of ZSL and its partners.
Guests joined ZSL scientists, zookeepers and conservationists who shared the vital work the international conservation charity is doing to protect wildlife, before heading into the stunning safari style marquee for the live auction and a vegan three-course dinner.
ZSL’s Fundraising Director James Wren said: “It has been three years since we last held our Safari in the City fundraising gala but the threats facing wildlife remain just as stark.
“With a million species under threat of extinction from habitat loss, poaching and climate change, we are losing biodiversity at an alarming rate - now more than ever, the natural world needs our help.
“Last night’s Safari in the City fundraising gala raised more than £436,000 for ZSL – vital funds that will support our work and our commitment to creating a world where wildlife thrives.
“After learning about ZSL’s important work, guests bid on a range of incredible lots, including the chance to name Critically Endangered tiger cubs born this summer at London Zoo.
“Since last night, our generous supporters have continued to pledge, and we expect this total to increase – which is a fantastic indicator of the passion and recognition of the importance of our work. We urge others to lend their support by donating via our website.”