From now on, the Mykolaiv regional organization of the All-Ukrainian Union of Defenders, led by its head Oleksandr Rusnak, has taken under its care the Mykolaiv Zoo, which is one of the oldest zoos in Ukraine and one of the most renowned in Europe.

The Mykolaiv Zoo is home to 452 species and 5,690 individual animals, of which 220 species are listed in the International Red Book. The institution employs 232 specialists and maintains a botanical garden that includes about 400 species and varieties of trees and shrubs. The zoo also offers animal-assisted therapy for children with disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays.

During Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Mykolaiv Zoo was shelled twice: on March 7, 2022, Russian forces fired rockets at the zoo, with one projectile landing right near the enclosures of the tigers and the polar bear. The shelling repeated on April 19. Due to the Russian occupation, which affected a significant part of southern Ukraine, the zoo began facing difficulties with the supply of animal feed, medicines, and vitamins. 

Unfortunately, the difficulties have not ended, as a large part of the population has left the city due to the war, and tourists are afraid to travel to Mykolaiv because of constant shelling and the advancing front line. The institution, which has preserved life for years, is now itself fighting for its right to exist. 

The head of the Mykolaiv regional organization of the All-Ukrainian Union of Defenders of Ukraine, Oleksandr Rusnak, during his visit to the zoo, spoke with the head of the zoo’s veterinary department, Oleh Yavkin, and delivered food, medicines, and medical equipment for the animals' needs.

“I am taking patronage over the pearl of our city — the Mykolaiv Zoo. I will help in every way I can, using my connections and resources to support our smaller brothers. I urge everyone not to remain indifferent: come to the zoo, support it, and together we will preserve what is dear to us!” — Oleksandr comments on his visit.