Flamingos huddle in Panama City Beach zoo restroom during hurricane
In Panama City Beach, flamingos found shelter inside a public restroom at ZooWorld to stay safe during Hurricane Isaias. All animals survived uninjured.
Flamingos found shelter inside a public bathroom in Panama City Beach during Hurricane Isaias. The temporary shelter protected the vulnerable birds from severe Gulf Coast weather conditions. Zookeepers moved the flock indoors before the storm hit.
The birds gathered together inside a restroom facility at ZooWorld Panama City Beach. Park workers shared a video of the group on Facebook. They explained how different animals handle storm safety.
“Hurricane lock down looks a bit different for every animal. Some prefer the warm comfort of a hay bed, some need a little more space and a little more water,” the post said.
Flamingos need open space and water during storms. These conditions prevent stress and dehydration in the birds. It worked well.
Staff members also shared pictures of other species in Panama City Beach. Bat-eared foxes rested on fresh bedding inside travel crates. All animals survived the storm without injuries.
The facility grounds sustained minor damage. Workers began cleaning up downed tree limbs across the park. The cleanup continues.
Similar sheltering happened during Hurricane Andrew in Florida. Flamingos at Zoo Miami rode out that Category 5 storm inside a bathroom. The Miami park was named Miami Metrozoo at that time.
Zoo facilities create custom housing plans for each animal species during natural disasters. Staff members prepare secure interior structures to protect wildlife from extreme wind and rain.
ZooWorld crews continue clearing storm debris from pathways around the Panama City Beach attraction.
