BRIDGEPORT, CT – 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.

About Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo: Connecticut’s only zoo, celebrating 102 years, features 350 animals representing 
primarily North and South American and Northern Asian species. Guests won’t want to miss our Red Pandas, Andean 
bears, maned wolves, Mexican gray wolves, and American Red Wolves. Other highlights include our Spider Monkey 
Habitat, and new prairie dog exhibit. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and 
participant in its Species Survival Plan (SSP) programs, the non-profit Zoo is committed to the preservation of 
endangered animals and wild habitats. Tickets may be purchased on the Zoo’s website at beardsleyzoo.org.

About Avangrid Foundation: The Avangrid Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization that funds 
philanthropic investments that primarily impact communities where Avangrid, Inc. and its subsidiaries operate. 
Since 2001, the Avangrid Foundation and its predecessors have invested more than $45 million in partnerships that 
focus on building sustainable, vital and healthy communities; preserving cultural and artistic heritage; advancing 
education; and improving people’s lives. The Avangrid Foundation is committed to advancing the United Nations 
Sustainable Development Goals in the United States. For more information, please 
visit https://www.avangrid.com/avangrid-foundation.

(BRIDGEPORT, CT) A new collaboration is on tap as the zoo once again join forces with Foolproof Brewing Company to release Beardsley Brew 2. This year’s limited-edition beer is a crisp Japanese-style rice lager that pairs local craftsmanship with a passion for wildlife conservation.
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Following the success of the original Beardsley Brew, this flight brings together two Bridgeport favorites for a beer that truly gives back. The limited-edition label features a striking hand-sketched red panda by Connecticut artist Joey Visco, honoring one of the Zoo’s most beloved species. Playful and curious, red pandas are a guest favorite at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo and serve as ambassadors for endangered wildlife around the world.

​“This collaboration is such a great example of what happens when community and conservation come together,” said Dr. Jim Wharton, CEO of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. “Every can represents the passion of our partners, the dedication of our Zoo family, and our extended family of supporters who believe in protecting wildlife. We’re proud to raise a glass with Foolproof Brewing and invite the community to join us!”

BRIDGEPORT, CT – The campaign trail is heating up once again at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, as a new group of charismatic animal candidates vie for the coveted title of Zoo Mayor! Now in its sixth year, this lighthearted election invites guests to cast their votes for their favorite animal ambassador while supporting the Zoo’s mission of conservation, education, research, and fun.
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Each vote helps care for the Zoo’s animals and supports vital programs that inspire visitors to protect our planet’s incredible biodiversity. The 2025 race introduces five new contenders with a unique campaign style and plenty of personality:
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​Fiona the Maned Wolf
Graceful, striking, and confident, Fiona the Maned Wolf believes she’s got exactly what it takes to lead the pack. Known for her poise and independence, Fiona’s campaign emphasizes trust, teamwork, and forward thinking. With her signature flair, she’s promising to be “The Mane You Can Trust.” Text 2026ZooMayor2 to 71777 to vote for Fiona the Maned Wolf.

BRIDGEPORT, CT – Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is thrilled to announce An Evening of Wild Discovery with the return of its most anticipated fundraising event of the year! The Annual Beardsley Gala has been reimagined for 2025 transforming the traditional seated gala into a vibrant, interactive experience that reflects the very heart of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo-exploration, discovery, and connection.​

Hosted on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at the beautiful Inn at Longshore in Westport, the Gala has evolved from a traditional seated affair into a vibrant, interactive celebration. With themed animal stations, curated food experiences, signature cocktails, and animal encounters, the evening promises to be a dynamic mix of discovery, connection, and celebration with the goal of supporting the Zoo’s mission in conservation, education, and engagement.

Guests will be invited to explore a series of themed Zoo stations throughout the venue, offering opportunities to meet animals up close, interact with Zoo Educators, learn about conservation programs, and engage with the Zoo in entirely new ways. The night will also feature chef-driven food stations, and live entertainment to keep the energy high from start to finish.