The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic will be felt at the BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops.

While outdoor spaces remain open, Wildlife Park General Manager Glenn Grant says the miniature train, all indoor galleries, the family farm, and the gift shop will be closed until the further notice.

Also impacted is the Blue Heron Cafe, which will offer a limited, take-out menu only, while animal encounters and feed talks will also be suspended.

Grant says park staff will not book any VIP Experiences, VIP Encounters, guided tours, or birthday parties at this time.

“We understand that this is a difficult and trying time for everyone, and as a non-profit organization we are certainly feeling the effects of this global health crisis,” he said, in a statement.

“With limited funding, the majority of our revenue comes from admissions and Park donations, and the decision to make changes to our programming was a difficult one; however, we feel it necessary to be proactive in this situation.”

Grant is asking people who have recently travelled abroad, people who are not feeling well, and people who have been in contact with someone who is not well to stay away from the park.

“We still encourage you to enjoy our wide-open spaces while viewing BC’s iconic wildlife,” added Grant.

“Amidst all the uncertainty we encourage you to take time to safely connect with your loved ones, and you can still do that at the BC Wildlife Park while maintaining appropriate social distancing.”