Turtle Back Zoo Supporters Rally For Australia Wildfire Recovery

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Supporters of the Turtle Back Zoo in Essex County are rallying to the aid of animal rescuers in Australia after a devastating series of wildfires.

Dozens of people have died since the fire season began last July, and in the state of New South Wales alone, more than 3,000 homes have been destroyed or damaged. More than 17.9 million acres have burned across Australia's six states, CNN reported.

About half a billion animals have also been affected by the fires, with millions likely dead, CNN reported.

To help aid the recovery effort, the Zoological Society of New Jersey at Turtle Back Zoo is spearheading a donation drive, pledging to match all donations up to a total of $25,000. All donations will be routed to the wildlife hospital and rescue efforts at Wildlife Warriors Australia, organizers said.

Since the need in Australia is immediate the deadline to submit donations is Friday, Jan. 31, organizers said.

Learn more or make a donation.

“Across Australia, nearly 18 million acres of land has burned -- much of it bushland, forest and national parks home to the country's beloved and unique wildlife,” the nonprofit wrote. “Your lifesaving donation will provide animal support efforts to assist with the ongoing crisis.”

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