HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) New state guidelines are prompting the Hutchinson Zoo to limit the types of wild animals it will help at its rehabilitation center.
The zoo says it won’t take in deer, pigeons, starlings, raccoons or skunks.
The Hutchinson News reports the decision comes after the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism issued new guidelines on caring for wild animals.
Zoo director Jana Durham says most wild animals have a better chance of surviving in the wild.
And zoo curator Kiley Buggeln says safety is another concern. Many wild animals suffer from diseases such as rabies, distemper or roundworm.
Hutchinson is one of only four rehabilitation facilities in the state. The others are at zoos in Great Bend, Emporia and Salina.
