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Kyiv Zoo Struggles to Survive Amid War and Cold

2/19/2026

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Story summary
  • Kyiv Zoo, home to Ukraine's only gorilla Toni, faces severe challenges from ongoing Russian attacks and energy shortages, with only a few hours of electricity daily.
  • Zoo director Kyrylo Trantin says preparations began in summer.
  • The zoo uses wood-burning stoves and generators to keep 3,000 animals warm during winter, when temperatures reach -22C.
  • The zoo attracts about 500,000 visitors annually, including children from frontline areas and rehabilitated soldiers.