Normally, this time of year fills me with anticipation and excitement for the year ahead, as I reflect on the holiday season and hope everyone enjoyed restful moments with friends, family, and loved ones. However, this year has been different. Our city, our communities, and our neighbors have been deeply impacted by the devastating wildfires that have ravaged Southern California. While 2025 began under precarious circumstances, I have faith in our collective resilience. Together, we will rise as Los Angeles begins the long journey toward recovery. On behalf of the entire Los Angeles Zoo family, we stand in solidarity with everyone who has been directly or indirectly affected by these fires.
I am grateful to share that the Zoo was indeed fortunate as the campus emerged from this emergency relatively unscathed. Following the initial storm, which brought unusually strong Santa Ana winds to Southern California, the Zoo closed to the public for nine days during the worst of the fires and a few additional days as a precautionary measure as red flag conditions persisted. Despite downed trees and many fallen branches, our campus sustained no significant damage from the wind or fires. I am pleased to report that there has been no harm to buildings, exhibits, or critical infrastructure. At no point did we need to initiate evacuations, and there were no injuries to staff or animals on-site. The Zoo remained outside evacuation zones, and our dedicated team worked tirelessly throughout the closure to ensure the safety and well-being of every animal. I am not only grateful for the dedication of the Zoo staff, I am inspired beyond words.
It is remarkable to think that less than a month ago, the Zoo was alive with the joy of L.A. Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow presented by the Angela Collier Foundation. This festive celebration of the holiday season welcomed thousands of Angelenos who came to experience its magic. We also hosted two beloved Community Nights—Pride Night and Sensory Inclusion Night—for the third consecutive year. Each event was thoughtfully curated to create welcoming spaces that reflect the diversity of our community.
Looking ahead, in the very near future the Zoo will be announcing several animal additions and the opening of the highly anticipated Cape Vulture exhibit as we bring the species back for public viewing in a habitat specifically designed to replicate their natural range. In February we will honor the vibrant Asian communities of Los Angeles with the return of our Lunar New Year celebration. This event will highlight the rich cultural heritage that makes our city so unique, featuring cultural music and dance performances, calligraphy demonstrations, and more.
The Zoo remains steadfast in its mission to save wildlife, enrich our communities, and create connections to nature. Our loyal supporters, donors, members, volunteers, and staff have stood by us through challenges and triumphs alike. Your strength inspires and sustains us. We hope the Zoo can return the kindness by being a place of peaceful respite and reflection for all who need it—a space where the wonders of nature offer a welcome escape, even if just for a few hours. No matter the obstacles we face, we remain committed to creating a just and sustainable world where people and wildlife thrive, together. And in Los Angeles, we are always stronger together.
