FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) — For the past 56 years, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has always opened as scheduled towards the end of April.

This year, officials announced Tuesday, that will not be the case.

FWCZ officials say they do not know when they will be able to open to the public, but are "in close contact with local health officials, and we will open as soon as officials tell us it is safe to do so."

“Whenever it happens, Opening Day 2020 will be a great day” says Executive Director, Jim Anderson. “We love welcoming children and their families to connect with our animals and enjoy a world of adventure inside our gates, and this year’s opening day will be a special one.”

The zoo's education staff say it is providing resources for area teachers and parents with lesson plans, educational videos and nature activities while schools remain closed.

As a nonprofit, the FWCZ officials say the zoo does not receive tax support for its daily operations and has to rely on guests and memberships

Memberships can be renewed or purchased online.

“We want you to know that your membership matters. Our gates may be closed, but by purchasing or renewing a zoo membership you are providing us with dollars needed to maintain our operations,” says Director of Development, Amy Lazoff.

Lazoff says once Opening Day 2020 is identified, FWCZ will credit extra weeks to all existing memberships, to make up for the days the zoo is not able to open amid the coronavirus.

We will continue to update members and guest with opening day information on our website and Facebook pages.