Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo announces 40K grant from Avangrid Foundation Wildlife Rehabilitation Program

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo (CBZ), the state’s only accredited zoo and a leader in wildlife conservation, is thrilled to announce a grant of $40,000 from the Avangrid Foundation’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Program. This funding will support the purchase and implementation of a Therapeutic (Cold) Laser unit, a non-invasive tool that will enhance medical care for the Zoo’s animals and support continued rehabilitation and conservation efforts.

The Therapeutic Laser unit will allow CBZ’s veterinary team to provide advanced treatment options for a wide range of species, including birds, reptiles, and mammals, helping to address pain, inflammation, arthritis, and wound recovery. The technology supports healing through targeted light therapy and offers an effective, low-stress treatment option for animals in care.

“This grant is an important investment in the health and wellbeing of the animals at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo,” said Dr. Jim Wharton, CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. “We are grateful to the Avangrid Foundation for supporting innovative veterinary tools that allow our team to provide the highest standard of care and continue our work in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation.”

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CBZ’s veterinary department plays a critical role in caring for animals across the Zoo, including species involved in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP) and Saving Animals From Extinction (SAFE) programs. These programs contribute to the long-term survival of endangered species through collaborative breeding, research, and conservation initiatives.

“Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo has long been a vital part of our local community, providing education, inspiration, and hands‑on conservation every day. The Avangrid Foundation’s grant will help expand the Zoo’s capacity to deliver advanced, compassionate care to animals in need, critical work that protects wildlife and strengthens the ecosystems we all depend on,” said Pablo Colón, Director of Corporate Citizenship and Executive Director of the Avangrid Foundation.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo invites the public to visit and learn more about the Zoo’s mission in conservation, education, and animal care. For tickets and additional information, please visit www.beardsleyzoo.org.

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Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo announces 40K grant from Avangrid Foundation Wildlife Rehabilitation Program