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Power outage disrupts daily operations
The Story Book Farm Primate Sanctuary, located in Brock Township, Ontario, is currently facing significant challenges following a recent ice storm that knocked out power to the facility. This unexpected event has not only disrupted the daily operations but has also raised concerns about the well-being of the animals housed there.
The sanctuary is home to various primates, including Darwin, a Japanese macaque who gained fame after being spotted in a North York Ikea back in 2012.
Volunteers step up amid crisis
According to volunteer Jaqcueline Waldorf, the sanctuary lost power on Saturday, and while they have generators, they are struggling with a lack of water due to the failure of their electric water pump.
“We have generators fortunately, however, we don’t have water,” Waldorf explained in a recent interview with Global News. Employees and volunteers have been working overtime, bringing in bottled water from nearby stores to ensure the animals remain hydrated. “It’s a lot having to bring in more water.
It’s heavy,” she added, highlighting the physical toll this situation has taken on the staff.
Financial support needed for recovery
The sanctuary is appealing for financial help to cover the costs associated with storm cleanup and regular maintenance, which have surged due to the recent weather conditions.
Waldorf emphasized the importance of caring for the animals, stating, “These animals … would prefer to be in their natural habitats. They don’t belong here. The least we can do for them since we took them out of their natural environment is to care for them and give them a sanctuary.” Donations are crucial at this time, as they will help the sanctuary recover and continue providing a safe haven for its residents.
Weather forecast raises concerns
Despite the recent warm weather, meteorologists are warning that more winter weather is on the way. Global News meteorologist Anthony Farnell noted, “The winter chill doesn’t want to leave, but eventually summer and the warmth wins out.
The problem is, as those two seasons battle it out, you can get ice storms and early next week we’re going to have another chance of snow flurries, squalls, and some accumulation, so we’re not out of the woods yet.” This forecast adds urgency to the sanctuary’s need for support as they prepare for potential further disruptions.
